K is for kindred.
Joining a writing group is encouraging, educational, and fun.
Just make sure your fellow writers are of a kindred spirit.
This simply means: not any writing group will work for you.
"Finding a writing group or partner is a lot like dating. There’s an element of searching and an element of matching. You’re looking for people you can share a piece of your creative self with, for people you want to spend time on, for people who can help you become a stronger writer ... " Jane Friedman
L is for lucky break.
Yes, those lucky breaks do come along but don't just sit back and wait for them.
I am a firm believer in hard work, but I also believe life mysteriously unfolds in ways that surprises us. Those moments that come out of nowhere are encouraging.
Being "discovered" is always possible and it does happen. But if you are not consistently working at your craft, your name and your work will not be visible.
Bottom line: if you've been working your tail off and making little progress, don't give up. In time a connection somewhere may come out of the blue giving you that lucky break you deserve.
M is for momentum.
There's nothing like it! Churning out submissions or landing regular assignments keeps you feeling successful.
This happens when you have a schedule. It takes discipline and consistency. Keep at it.
Sometimes that momentum comes to a screeching halt because life happens. Don't get discouraged. See it as a season and get back on track.
N is for networking.
Access to the internet gives any new writer a chance to network with other writers.
My very first step in becoming a writer was taking an affordable online writing course. This led me to an online writing coach, which led me to joining her website, which led me to knowing other writers on that site, which gave me a foundation to begin building on.
It can be daunting to join with seasoned writers and authors, yet, I have found it to be a very friendly, helpful environment. You will, too.
O is for opportunities.
Where do I begin? The opportunities are endless.
Whatever you like to write, you can be sure there is room for you. If you love writing and you are serious about freelancing or writing a book, make it happen.
One way to begin looking for opportunities may be in your own backyard. Christina Katz has some great advice to write for regional parenting magazines in your area. If you live near colleges (or not!), consider writing resumes for prospective career minded students.
Keep your eyes open and look for those opportunities. They are all around you!
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After raising and homeschooling her 8 children and teaching art classes for 10 years, Kathy has found time to pursue freelance writing. She enjoys writing magazine articles and more recently had her story, "One of a Kind", published in The Kids' Ark. You can find her passion to bring encouragement and hope to people of all ages at When It Hurts - http://kathleenmoulton.com
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