We’ve (and I’ve!) come a long way, baby!
September 6th question: The IWSG celebrates 12 years today! When did you discover the IWSG, how do you connect, and how has it helped you?
I got onboard IWSG late that first (or second) year when one of my writer pals, Diane Burton asked me what I’d heard about a new social media site for writers. I’m notoriously cautious about weekly/monthly online commitments (especially when I was working fulltime) but the uniqueness of IWSG sounded perfect. A set topic and quick shoutout about what I’ve been doing, kudos to those hosting the monthly event and then . . . the best part . . . finding new writer friends! There were almost 500 (!) when I joined, a jaw dropping number that, like all new things, parred down over the years to a healthy 120ish. The advantage is that most of my other media groups are in my genre (mainly romance) – but IWSG covers all of them, including coveted film! I’ve gotten wonderful insights and suggestions from the entire realm of written (plus vocal and visual) content. Woo Hoo!
And then there’s the chance to participate by hosting. I’ve met some fantastic writers (the new and the amazingly prolific) and have gleaned priceless nuggets of knowledge by that simple contact and get-to-know you via websites/blogs. We are one heck of a creative (and generous!) group! And it’s that diversity that makes us unique. Woo Hoo us!! Here’s to another dozen (and beyond)!
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
Posting: The first Wednesday of every month is officially Insecure Writer’s Support Group day. Post your thoughts on your own blog. Talk about your doubts and the fears you have conquered. Discuss your struggles and triumphs. Offer a word of encouragement for others who are struggling. Visit others in the group and connect with your fellow writer - aim for a dozen new people each time. The awesome co-hosts for the September 6th posting of the IWSG will be Sonia Dogra, J Lenni Dorner, Pat Garcia, Sarah - The Faux Fountain Pen, and Meka James!
Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!
Twitter hashtag is #IWSG
It sounds like a number of people found out about the IWSG through Diane. I enjoy co-hosting for the same reasons as you. I'm so grateful for this group.
ReplyDeleteDiane can't keep a secret - thank goodness!
DeleteSo glad Diane recommended the IWSG and you've been a part of it for so long. It's awesome this group has done so much for so many.
ReplyDeleteIt's been one of my constants during my writing journey.
DeleteHi, here's Pat Garcia. Sorry about signing in this way but Google won't let me do it any other way.
ReplyDeleteWe certainly do have many advantages by being a part of the IWSG. That's how I met yo and read some of your magnificent stories.
Take care.
Shalom shalom
Thanks, Pat! It's amazing how our community has thrived and the benefits have expanded to all who choose to use them.
DeleteHappy IWSG-iversary! You've been here a bit longer than I have, but I'm impressed you remember who invited you! :-)
ReplyDeleteYou tend to remember the important things that shape your (writing) future. I've tried many hit-and-miss options but IWSG has been a constant.
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteEsther O'Neill, East of the Sun Google doesn't seem to believe that I really don't have a signal, cannot pick up security texts. UK, 2023....
Tweet ? From a PC, a Heath Robinson operation, somehow lacks spontaneity, and the birds round here don't tweet much - ravens, buzzards, falcons.
Insecure, definitely, also know I was so lucky to find IWSG . Told by a family expert working in publishing that I'm not a writer, I'm learning to be OK with that.
Hopefully, next book will be on Kindle by Friday.
"Being a writer" is a personal interpretation. I was "being a writer" when in grade school! Never listen to the opinion of others when it comes to your own joy. A being a writer doesn't mean gaining bestsellerdom. It's following your own bliss through the written word. Hands and keys doth a writer make!!
DeleteIf you write, you're a writer. I'm sorry someone chose to be so cruel and dismissive to you. Congrats on your upcoming book!
DeleteI love how Diane mentored so many of us, and I love how you have hosted from time to time. A wonder tribute to Alex.
ReplyDeleteGiving goes with receiving. Sometimes it that unexpected source that supplies just the information, the boost, the push you need to keep going. That's what we do. We keep each other going!
DeleteYes, I was a little leery to commit to creating a post every month at a certain time. With five kids at home, I never knew when I'd get a moment to write anything.
ReplyDeleteIWSG is wonderful and all the writers are very gracious in sharing what they know to help other writers. Bravo, IWSG. And Bravo, Nancy, for being a part of it.
I'm very leery of "joining" but IWSG has been perfect for me. No pressure except what I choose to place upon myself. I've found the biggest reward is in reaching out and giving back.
DeleteI like co-hosting because not only does it push traffic to my own blog, but also forces me to comment more on other people's blogs, often ones I've never visited before. I often let tiredness or real life keep me from participating as much as I'd like.
ReplyDeleteI hear you! I always comment on the co-hosts and friends' posts then pick sites at random in each block of 10 on our list to visit. I've met some fabulous folk that way.
DeleteThe current number of participants is definitely easier to get through than when the numbers had mega swelled! Every little once in a while, if I have the time, I try to go through the whole list in the week surrounding IWSG. Admittedly, it's been a bit since I had that time, but it's good to catch up with folks I used to be in communication with more.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree!
DeleteI really appreciate my time as part of IWSG and it is fantastic the wide range of writers we get to connect with, I agree. www.heidiangell.com
ReplyDeleteYes it is! From one center, we go in so many different directions.
DeleteI didn't realize you'd been a part of the group for so long--how cool! I wish I had time to visit everyone every time, but as you can see from how late this post is, I struggle to keep up at all. Yet I wouldn't miss it.
ReplyDelete