You’ve heard it before: “Writing is a solitary endeavor.” Yes, that’s true. The responsibility for getting the words on the page rests on the writer’s shoulders. And yet, we don’t have to be Lone Rangers. In fact, if you think about it, the Lone Ranger wasn’t alone! He had Tonto. And a whole network of sheriffs and people that he’d helped, all of whom supported and were rooting for him.
Anyone who has ever been involved in sports know the power of cheerleaders and coaches. Of the folks who stand beside us, people who can guide and goad us. Give us a kick in the pants when we let ourselves give in to defeat. Put an arm around our shoulders when things get ugly. Hoist a celebratory cuppa (of coffee) when things go well.
Writers, we need a “team.”
In the next few posts, I’m going to talk about some of the partners you should consider having on your team. I’m not talking about publishers or in-house editors, thought clearly they’re important team members if you’re contracted with a publisher. Rather, I’m talking about folks who walk the path with you from the beginning…or from where you are right now, including an advisory board, accountability partners, and freelance editors. But first, I want to know your thoughts.
Do you have a “team” working with you? If you don’t already have a team, what’s holding you back? Who would you like to have on your team? If you have a team, what works well and what benefits have you seen from their involvement in your work?
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
