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How to support one another as writers. A thread. By me. :)
1. Remember everyone needs to start somewhere. Everyone had to pick up a crayon to learn to write at some point. So, as writers, everyone has sat before a page and written what you think is a masterpiece. 1/
1. Remember everyone needs to start somewhere. Everyone had to pick up a crayon to learn to write at some point. So, as writers, everyone has sat before a page and written what you think is a masterpiece. 1/
Even though you're unaware of things like formatting, plot, theme, A B and C storylines. You write because you have a story in your noggin that you want to tell. So you do it. And then... you SHARE IT. 2/
So 1 of 2 things happen. 1) Your work is loved and adored and you get glowing reviews (family and friends) 2) Your work is picked apart, slaughtered, dissected, and obliterated (family and friends). Either way, you're like WTF just happened? We have ALL been there. 3/
So. IF you're a writer and you get a very enthusiastic newbie that sends you something and it's not great, here's how to navigate those waters: if it's a formatting issue, ignore it and honestly focus on the story. THEN, when they ask if you liked it, you can say: 4/
"Some formatting issues but those are easy fixes. The story was compelling when..." And give them a pat on the back. THEN and ONLY THEN you sprinkle in things that were glaring. "Let me ask you, what happened here? I was confused when..." Clarification is not damnation. 5/
So what you've done is: validated they've had something good on paper and given HELPFUL criticism (and helpful criticism is NOT: "I would do this..." or "I would do that.." or "I don't like it when..." because it's not YOUR story to tell) 6/
YOUR job is to SUPPORT that writer, no matter what stage they're in. Do you hold toddlers to the same demands as teenagers? No. Same thing here. You can't expect a newbie to understand perfect formatting, theme, plot, exposition, etc. YOUR job is to point the way. Okay how? 7/
The oreo effect. Give praise, something to work on, and then another praise. Sounds cheesy, but it works. Now the person feels SEEN and HEARD. How many times have we submitted work to someone who does the "I would have done this" thing and we're like, "They don't get me." 8/
Celebrate their work. If they get to write on a blog, share the link. WHO is that going to hurt? NO ONE. Your support will command respect if you're consistent. And that's key because you can drop hints now. Or share articles that will help them become better writers. 9/
Instead of saying "This is crap!" why not share the notes and articles YOU used to make YOURSELF a better writer? Chances are they will be so thrilled to receive them they'll incorporate the content and become better. And who does that hurt? no one. 10/
THEN you can delve into deeper questions with them, and they'll be more apt to WANT to understand. Because now you've traveled a road with them. And they'll listen to you. And apply your great wisdom. 11/
For more seasoned writers: the only reason I've ever seen writers be mean to other writers is Fear. They feel threatened. They may not even realize it. But at it's core, it's plain old fashioned fear. The other writer may steal their audience. The other writer may be better. 12/
All any of us have to do is treat others the way we would want to be treated. I'd LOVE to know I have people cheering me on! I'd LOVE to know I had people sharing my work and helping me make connections. Who wouldn't, right? Again: Kindness is never a bad thing. 13/
So, if another writer lands a gig, RT them. Brag on them. CONGRATULATE them. That's never going to hurt you. Share their links. Recommend them for jobs. They'll remember your support. 14/
Everything we do is in a tapestry. And just because we can't see the string right now, doesn't mean we won't later. A kind word of support today could mean a million dollar deal next year. You never know. And I have been asked... 15/
What do I do when a friend hurts me or says mean things about me? Honestly, I don't respond right away and I mull it over and try to understand their actions. Usually it stems from some event in their childhood and it's formed who they are. And I do take that into account. 16/
I've found that I can still be kind to that person, but wiser in regards to him/her. I'll be more guarded. But I won't change who I am because they have an issue. That's on them. I don't let people change who I am. I've walked away from jobs before bc of that. 17/
All that to say: be supportive, lift each other up. Say nice things. Cheer them on. Clap. Kindness costs NOTHING. We ALL need support. Especially now with volatile social media and unease in the air. You can do it. I know you can. Keep up the great work. I believe in you! /End
