by Ruth Floresca

Created on: December 06, 2008

The first time I had my first commissioned article published in a well-known magazine here in my country back in 2002, I immediately realized I needed to find kindred spirits who I can share experiences with and ask advice from.

I searched on-line and found an e-group of local writers. My first few months there were spent reading posts and opinions of the older members. I enjoyed learning more about the industry based on their stories.

Much later, when I felt that I can finally contribute to the discussions, I joined in. After having several articles published by then, I could finally share my own experiences. I discovered how rewarding it was to mentor the newbies who asked the same questions I tried to find answers to when I was just starting.

Likewise, it was great to have a place where I can find tips and other writing leads from fellow writers who generously shared opportunities. Over time, I started to get unexpected calls too from potential clients who my contacts in the industry referred me to. Moreover, having a network of writer-friends led me to being invited to exclusive events that I won't otherwise know about if not for them.

Having friends who are writers themselves eases that burden of having no one to talk to about work. Sure, we can talk about writing in general with our loved ones but only to a certain extent. I can immediately see when I am boring somebody with talk about word counts, publishing guidelines or incompetent editors.

Thank goodness I can vent out my annoyances with a few choice individuals who exactly know what I am going through because they have experienced that firsthand too.

These days, I have several writer-friends who I became close to after we worked together as contributing writers to several common publications. No day passes by that I wouldn't call/email or get a call/email from at least one of them to swap stories with. Initially, we talked about our common editors, other writers we know, unfair rates, delay in payments and general issues on writing frustrations and joys.

As we got to know each other better, we have found more things to talk about such as our families, hobbies, other earning opportunities and many other things under the sun. Sometimes, I find that I talk to my writer-friends more than I do my mom, husband, siblings and other friends who won't understand what I'm going through as a writer.

So yes, writers need other writers to validate doubts, to encourage, to provide guidance, plus other similar advantages. Having this kind of valuable support makes a writer feel less lonely in this continuous journey of self-discovery.

Learn more about this author, Ruth Floresca.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.