In June 2022 I went to an indie writers conference in Madrid. It was my first ever writers' conference, and the only one I’ve been to so far. It was a great experience, yet if you asked me today what I learned there in terms of creative writing or commercial tips, I wouldn’t be able to give you a clear answer.
What has truly stayed with me, more than two years later, are the people I met, and the relationships that came out of it. Flying to Madrid and meeting professionals who share my new passion helped me start building a new network.
Everyone was an indie author. Some were best-selling authors, some were newbies like me. I shared a drink (alright, two, maybe three) with Steamy Romance authors, then had dinner with a group of Women Fiction female writers. We exchanged phone numbers and started a WhatsApp group chat.
This chat is alive and kicking to this day, providing a free exchange of knowledge, and a safe space to ask questions and receive help. Every Sunday morning, the group admin, who is a wonderful person called Sora (we’re meeting in person again next month, yay!), posts the same three questions:
1) What are your goals for the coming week?
2) What really worked well in the past week?
3) What didn't work? How will you change it?
The trick is to answer them truthfully, and to be willing to be vulnerable.
Answering them has become a part of my writing routine, helping me stay accountable. It’s not just about setting goals. It's about being honest with myself, and sharing it with others - especially when things don’t go as planned.
I’m sharing with you my answers from this Sunday:
1) What are your goals for the coming week?
Continue writing the story of Rebecca the medieval healer - she is getting closer to solving her murder mystery in 12th-century Toledo.
2) What really worked well in the past week?
Starting to write historical mysteries is already working for me - as a way to escape to a different time and place. I’ve also been pitching and appearing on podcasts these past few months. While I’m not sure of the results yet, each conversation helps me think about and refine my brand.
3) What didn't work? How will you change it?
Didn’t do enough physical exercise, neither walked nor did my Yoga. Need to flex that willpower muscle more.
What is your safe space? let me know in the comments.🌟
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