I've had so many good writing communities that I've been a part of. At their best, they lift you up. When I was having real-life issues that kept me from writing, they were there for me with support and encouragement.
But I've also been a part of groups that turned toxic, where there's a small inner cabal and everyone else is there as window dressing, which always makes me feel like I'm back in elementary school and firmly being taught that I'm nothing if I'm not part of the "in" crowd.
I'm still fairly new to writing in community but almost by accident I've managed to carefully curate my writing community. So I don't have a lot in the way of fears. I am historically not great at transitions and the whole "getting to know you" thing but the community that I have found has helped me settle into that somewhat.
As for hopes, I'm always on the lookout for people to brainstorm with, bolster each other's energy and morale, & learn from.
The power of community and positive reinforcement are a driving force that beat out bad days, icky bosses, and fear. If my focus is on community then I don’t have as much time or energy to be critical to myself.
I've had so many good writing communities that I've been a part of. At their best, they lift you up. When I was having real-life issues that kept me from writing, they were there for me with support and encouragement.
But I've also been a part of groups that turned toxic, where there's a small inner cabal and everyone else is there as window dressing, which always makes me feel like I'm back in elementary school and firmly being taught that I'm nothing if I'm not part of the "in" crowd.
I'm still fairly new to writing in community but almost by accident I've managed to carefully curate my writing community. So I don't have a lot in the way of fears. I am historically not great at transitions and the whole "getting to know you" thing but the community that I have found has helped me settle into that somewhat.
As for hopes, I'm always on the lookout for people to brainstorm with, bolster each other's energy and morale, & learn from.
The power of community and positive reinforcement are a driving force that beat out bad days, icky bosses, and fear. If my focus is on community then I don’t have as much time or energy to be critical to myself.