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Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Insecure Writer's Support Group 1

I know I just posted yesterday, but today is the first meeting of The Insecure Writers Support Group, brainchild of the rather awesome Alex J. Cavanaugh. Click on the link for more details, but it is what it says, a bunch of us insecure writers getting together to share those insecurities and give support to each other. If you'd like to read some of the other posts, click on the badge on the right and it will take you to the page where the other members are listed.

I'm probably the most insecure writer I know, just like many of you are probably the most insecure writers that you know. Most of us are, right?

Today though, I'm not going to write about my insecurities, I'm going to talk about this brilliant means of support. It's the one thing that's kept me going when nothing else has worked, not even chocolate.

Have you guessed what it is yet? Yep, it's you. Yes, you there, and you, and you, even you at the back, trying not to be noticed.

It might sound corny but this whole community is one big blanket of support. I'm not just talking about the people who read my blog, but also the ones who have no idea who I am, but still post stuff that resonates with me, that makes me feel like I'm not alone, others have felt like this; and that maybe it's not automatic that I'll be a big fat failure.

Of course, the people who read this blog are extra awesome. There's the published author that still leaves funny little messages that makes me think she likes what I wrote, there's the man who - unknowingly - gave me a lift right when I needed it and then, through emails, became someone I consider to be a friend. There's the woman who's now at the querying stage that seems to see something in me that I don't see in myself. There's the guy that made me rethink something I'd previously taken for granted and actually got me to start using my brain again. I could fill pages with what you guys have done for me, and how you've kept me going, even when you've never known it.

I now 'talk' to people that I once wouldn't have dared to approach, and we talk as equals. I'm not afraid to ask for advice and support when I need it.

If there's someone you admire, even if they don't know you yet, drop them a line and tell them. I don't care who they are, I bet they'll be thrilled. If you read a blog and someone seems a bit down and you've got a few minutes to spare, drop them an email, let them know you care. Someone did that for me once, I promise, it made a difference.

It's tough out there, thank God we've got each other.


If you missed yesterday's post, I'd appreciate your opinion of my flash fiction piece. Thanks.

67 comments:

  1. So well said, Sarah. I think it's the little things, those moments when complete strangers reach out with kind words and encouragement, that keep us going.

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  2. I know you've helped me over at my place! :)

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  3. I agree - this blogging network of writer's is such a warm place to be. :-)

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  4. So true. It's a great help to know we're not alone in the writing foxhole. :)

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  5. Hi Sarah, thanks for pointing this out. I've signed up, but I'm not sure how to get that badge on my blog. Any tips?

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  6. Liz F - It's certainly kept me going more than once :-)

    Sarah W - Thank you. I love being at your place. You made me so welcome.

    Tara - Indeed it is!

    Linda - 'Writing Foxhole'. I like it!

    Annalisa - I couldn't find an email for you, so I hope you come back and see this.

    Right click the pic on Alex' blog, and click 'save image as...'
    Save the picture on your computer somewhere.

    Select 'Design' on your blog. Click 'Add a Gadget' on the right hand side.

    scroll down and select 'picture' from the list. Click the '+' box on the right hand side.

    Select 'choose file' and open the file where you saved the pic on your computer.

    If you want the pic to link a reader back to Alex' blog when they click on it, copy the page into the 'link' box which is on the same page as where you added the pic.

    Don't forget to save changes :-)

    I hope this makes sense, if not, just email me or comment on here :-)

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  7. I have all these same feelings today. You, of course, have been a huge influence on me. I just feel so lucky to be surrounded by so many amazing people who make me feel less insecure :)

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  8. Thanks for sharing these beautiful thoughts. I wish I had an extra five hours this morning to check everything out!

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  9. Thanks Sarah. I've pasted it into my post for the moment, but I'll attempt to follow your instructions when I've got a bit more time (I'm sure your instructions are fine, but I have an inbuilt inability to follow such things!!)

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  10. It is tough out there! I seriously don't know how I did this before blogging. You poor people are seeing me at my worst (querying). Just wait until I'min first draft mode. My giddiness is insatiable!

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  11. Such a good support group idea :)

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  12. Oh Sarah! I read your blog and you touch a chord in my soul...you are someone I look forward to reading, and you seem so "together". I'd email quite a few of you, but I don't know how! I just keep commenting and posting and hoping that I get as good at this writing thing as the rest of you already seem to be...

    I recently awarded some awards on my blog, and you were at the top of my list - but I assumed you have more than 200 followers...is that correct? if not, I'll amend my post immediately!

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  13. How awesome! I need to click the link and go learn more. I am definitely an insecure writer. And you're right... it's good to know that I'm not the only one. The writing world is amazing. I always learn so much - and this includes from YOU too! So thanks for sharing this today!

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  14. How cool! I'm not sure I actually know any writers who *aren't* insecure, although I'm sure they must exist. Thanks for the inspiration!

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  15. Your post made me think of this.

    http://images.cryhavok.org/d/3385-2/its-dangerous-to-go-alone-take-this.jpg

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  16. I agree completely--it seems odd, but sometimes words of encouragement from someone who has nothing to gain or lose by doing so, mean so much and can change the mood of an entire day.

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  17. Some of the authors I've befriended over the years just blows my mind, and one became my mentor and inspiration - author p.m. terrell.

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  18. Oooh, I'm extra awesome - and you're tagged!

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  19. Honestly, I'm so glad to have "met" you and for all the comments you've left on my blog as we are getting to know each other. I really appreciate all your thoughts and insights. :) So, thank you!

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  20. Well said. :) The blogosphere is a great source of support!

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  21. Hey Sarah. I'm the one at the back trying not to be noticed. Just a word of encouragement can and sometimes will turn a person's life around.

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  22. Wonderful post, Sarah. We all have moments of lows and highs. It's so nice to know we have a wonderful community of writers to help us overcome the lows. <3

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  23. I keep saying that the writing journey is a little less lonely with friends to share our joys and sorrow.

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  24. Ohhh, I agree with this completely! When I started blogging a few months ago, I felt so isolated and alone, especially because I didn't have anyone in my network of friends who I could talk to about the whole process. Once I uncovered the world of writers online, though, everything changed.

    It's always scary every time I publish a new blog post, partly because I'm always wondering if it sucks, but the response that I receive is so positive! You have been wonderful when it comes to reading my work, and I wanted to say a huge thank you. It means a lot to me. :D

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  25. I totally agree with you! The support amongst us writers is phenomenal.

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  26. Well said, it's so wonderful to be able to turn to a caring writer community when you're certain everything you've ever written or will write is complete and total crap! We've all had days like that and can relate and bolster each other up!

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  27. Haha, since you read my post today, you know I'm feeling particularly insecure! But the writing community is by far the most awesome group of people, and I am so glad we all have each other's backs!

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  28. The blogging community really does support its own. So glad to know you!

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  29. I was ready to protest that nothing is better than chocolate, but you are so right. This writing community is brilliant and I couldn't continue with it's amazing support and the incredible friendships.

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  30. ...you may feel insecure, but your writing is comparable to an old soul...one whose been there, and can spin a healthy yarn because of it.

    Well done, Sarah ;)

    El

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  31. I don't think I'd ever push myself through the tough times of writing without the support of the community. I would have given up a long time ago.

    Great post!

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  32. Agree Sarah! Isn't it funny how those words of encouragement shine when we need them. Your group sounds great - will definitely need something like that when I start querying! :)

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  33. This sounds like a great group. I've already read the post of another member, and I'm looking forward to reading more. :D

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  34. Whoo! Go us!
    I agree that blogging has helped with a lot of insecurities as a writer. Just knowing that there's a big bunch of people out there that are willing to give you a boost up should you need it is a real comfort :)

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  35. Hi Sarah!

    You're right - a bit of encouragement can make a world of difference. Did I tell you how much I appreciate all of your sweet and funny comments on my blog?

    I pink puffy heart you!

    xoxo
    Michelle

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  36. Fantastic post - couldn't agree with you more... alone all of us would struggle, so it's nice to know we all have each other:) Group hug!

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  37. This is soooooo true and SOOOO cool!
    ((((((!!HUGS!!)))))

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  38. Hey Sarah I left you a long missive but it didn't take so here I am again. I really appreciate you and your support in the blogging world. We really need each other. Thanks for this post.

    Denise

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  39. Great post (and nice to meet you). I've been out of the blogosphere for most of the summer. I can't think of a better way to return than to something like this! :)

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  40. Oh, too, too true! Too true!

    It's so hard out there - life for a writer is filled with rejection after rejection after rejection and reasons why to stop instead of keep going.

    But as long as writers are there for each other, we can always tell oen another why to keep going instead of stopping.

    Thanks for the inspiration.

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  41. Oh, rats - you noticed me! Lol... This is a really beautiful post. This on-line community of writers is so completely wonderful and I feel so blessed to have found them. I really appreciate the way each and every one of my followers has lifted me up and given me the guts to keep at it, and that includes you. :-)

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  42. I too feel fortunate to have the support and guidance of my blog-buddies.
    Sometimes when I start feeling a little down or sorry for myself, there's always someone there to give me a swift kick in the rear.
    But also when I write something that I think is good, it's very rewarding for my blog community to agree.
    The more I learn about writing, the more I realize I don't know squat. The best thing I can do is to read good stuff, study the craft, and hope that some of it sinks in :)

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  43. Second note: I have been following your blog for some time, but I just realized today that I didn't show up in your list of followers. Interesting.
    I'm showing up now.

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  44. You're right: Writers really stick together and help each other out - and it's great!

    And many thanks again for letting us know about the Campaign a couple of weeks ago! I'm enjoying all the people I'm meeting!

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  45. I am constantly amazed by how wonderful people in blogland are. So supportive, giving and just generally AMAZING! It's incredible.

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  46. That is a lovely personal descritpion of your writing/ blogging journey.
    I used to run and participate in forums which were cliquey and exasperating. Blogging is sooooooo much better, I agree with you Sarah.

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  47. thank you Sarah for saying just these words --AND for leaving so sweet a msg on my blog -- I really like it that you took the time. What you said there -- that you're not ready for publication IN ANY FORM yet -- is a delusion: your BLOG is awesome, personal, full of YOU - you ARE publishing! That's what this new world is all about... and yes, we bloggers are lucky to have each other
    Marian

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  48. I love the idea of an insecure writers support group! And yes, I think we all are. It's something we are doomed to live with, even at a stage, some could call sucessful. I think if you lose those insecurities you lose the ability to push yourself and your writing.

    Like you I love the blogosphere and all the people and support within it. Recently I haven't been as active as I was, but I do still treasure it and will hopefully be on this journey for a long time to come :)

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  49. So true, Sarah, so true. I never realised what an amazing community of writers existed in the blogosphere until I joined it. And I'm so glad I did. Sounds like we're on the same page there (pardon the pun).

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  50. Great advice. We definitely need to stick together. And letting someone else know that you think something positive about them really does help.

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  51. That's great you can approach people as equals and ask for advice and support. The blogging community is great in that respect. have a great weekend!

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  52. I'm much more comfy approaching people online than in person.

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  53. So true--we have each other and it's so nice to have that community!

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  54. Well said.

    I'd wither away without my writing people.

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  55. I know what you mean about being in awe of people and think they're unapproachable, then find out they are the most willing to help! Good post!

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  56. I sent author Ally Carter an email saying how much I enjoyed her book (this was before the Gallagher series was written) and she emailed me back and was so thrilled that I took the time to email her.
    It really is the little things sometimes. :)

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  57. I agree! Support from other writers and other bloggers is amazing and so helpful. =D

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  58. Jen - That's a lovely thing to say, thank you. You're right, we have some amazing friends :-)

    Angelina - I'm glad you liked it. It's going to take a while to get through them all!

    Annalisa - Hope you got it sorted!

    Emily - If this is your worst, then your best must be awesome!

    Kelley - Indeed. Hats off to Alex :-)

    Heather - Thank you for your lovely words, although I promise you I'm not 'together' at all! And your words are award enough, believe me.

    Abby - Thank you so much Abby. And we're all insecure in some way, aren't we?

    Cheryl - If you find any, let me know!

    SBJones - You know you rock, right?

    Julie F - It doesn't seem odd at all. Praise for it's own sake is highly valued.

    L. Diane Wolfe - How wonderful that you gained such an important inspiration on your journey.

    Patsy - Of course you are, oh purple highness, and thank you!

    Julie CB - Thank you too, I'm really enjoying getting to know you.

    Golden Eagle - It certainly is!

    Donna - I've seen you, so no more hiding! And you're so right.

    Brenda - Thank you. I dread to think where I'd be without this community.

    J.L. Campbell - Indeed, knowing you're not alone helps a great deal.

    Jamila - No need to thank me, it's an absolute pleasure reading your work.

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  59. Bish - Aye, and thank goodness for it!

    Johanna - I was so glad when I found out that feeling was normal!

    Gina - Your post made me smile. You got a request, and you were worrying about chapter numbers - exactly as I would have been - and you would have told me just what I told you :-)

    Alleged Author - That feeling is definitely mutual :-)

    Lynda - Aye, there isn't much I'd put above chocolate :-)

    E. Arroyo - Thank you :-)

    Elliot - Thank you so much, that means a lot.

    Suzie - you and me both!

    Melodie - Any time you need encouragement, you know where to find me.

    Stina - It was a wonderful idea of Alex's wasn't it?

    Jamie - Yep, we rock! Keep on with the zombie training and you can be our skinny cheerleader :-)

    HPCB - Michelle, lovely, I pink puffy heart you right back :-)

    Tania - United we stand! The group hug is an excellent idea :-)

    Jolene - You can join Tania and me in a group hug :-)

    L'Aussie - Denise, sorry blogger ate your comment and thank you for trying again. You're one of the people I look up to in this wacky world :-)

    Alison - Welcome back, and lovely to meet you too. I look forward to getting to know you :-)

    regectedriter - It would be so easy to stop wouldn't it? Thank God we've got us!

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  60. Crystal - Yeah, I saw you, so stand up proud! And thank you, getting to know you has been fun :-)

    Rick - I'm so glad to know you and Jilda. And as long as we know that we don't know anything, we'll be okay :-)

    Lauren - I'm so glad you decided to join, and you're having fun!

    Talli - You're one of those amazing supportive people, you know :-)

    Madeleine - I used to read gaming forums. I never cease to be thankful that this community is nothing like them!

    Youngbloodblog - You're so very welcome Marian, I found it highly informative and I'll be back. And thank you for the lovely words :-)

    Rebecca - I expect you to be round for a long time too Rebecca :-) It's lovely to see you.

    Cally - All puns welcome here! And you've definitely got to be part of it to understand it, that's for sure.

    Isis - I so agree. Who doesn't get a lift from hearing something nice?

    Stephen - I don't always feel like an equal, but I always get treated like one!

    Michael - I hear you and agree on that one!

    Lydia - Nice - and essential for our sanity!

    Jolene - Thank goodness we don't have to be without them :-)

    Christina - It's an awesome group :-)

    Judy - It's a bit weird finding out these awesome people are human :-)

    Jennifer - It is, isn't it? (And btw, I squealed in my head and said THE Ally Carter?!)

    RaShelle - I certainly couldn't get by without it!

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  61. I love this post, but the last line really sums it up. Thank God, indeed.

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  62. Sarah, we can ALL use the support, especially those of us who have yet to publish anything. I will continue to visit the Insecure Writers blog.

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  63. Rebecca - I wouldn't be without my writer buddies :-)

    Ken - Amen to that! Good to see you.

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  64. Still trying to get around to all the blogs and just came upon yours. I've only been blogging for a couple of weeks and am very new to the community, but everyone has been wonderful. Your blog is a wonderful reminder to continue supporting people. You're right, you never know whose life you may impact. Thank you.

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  65. Jessica - Welcome to the community! Thank you for your kind words, I look forward to getting to know you. Have fun!

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I happily answer all comments on my blog, and by email if it's not a 'noreply' address :-)