IWSG: Chicken or the egg?
What comes first, the chicken or the egg? The question I’ve been asking myself lately in the same vein is, should I go to a writer’s conference this year, to help motivate me to finish my first book, or, should I commit to finishing the book and then reward myself with a writer’s conference?
Having the discipline needed to write consistently is something I’m struggling with, so I feel like I shouldn’t invest the money to attend a conference until I’m willing to put in the work.
However, going to a writer’s conference (like Bouchercon, Killer Nashville or Malice Domestic), may give me the encouragement needed to move my story forward, helping me reach my goal.
As fellow writers, what is your take on writing, motivation and conferences? I would really appreciate hearing your thoughts.
dmweiden@gmail.com
I'm Diane, a marketing executive in the non-profit sector living in Terre Haute, Indiana. My husband and I moved from Denver, Colorado, 15-plus years ago and this blog highlights our joys and challenges in adjusting to our new home and town. I also share things I love: photography, wildlife and domestic pets, writing, knitting, making jewelry, food, travel, my faith in God and music. I'm also writing a mystery novel so stay tuned!
7 Comments
Pat Hatt
I have never attended one as there are few, if any, around here. But I keep on keeping on without them. So may not be the best one to answer. But if you think it will help you get done, give one a run.
Val
I believe conferences can be very helpful. Attending workshops and talking to other authors isn’t only motivating, but can also offer insights to the publishing business and tips to help with the writing process. As long as you aren’t using conferences as an excuse not to write, I’d say go for it. It’s only a few days out of your year. I’ve attended several conferences and gained something from each one. A small word of caution though. I have noticed a few professional conference attendees who would rather talk about their book and what they are going to do rather than actually writing that manuscript. We must all be careful not to get so involved in the social aspect of writing that we neglect the work part.
valeriecapps.com
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Hi Diane – thanks for coming over to the blog -good to meet you. It’s a personal thing isn’t it … I think it depends how near the Conference is, do you think you’ll benefit from being there, by chance would you have enough time to do a lot of writing and sorting out your goals re your work before you go … and the confidence to find appropriate people at the Conference to get some guidance … there’s a lot of hustle and bustle … but I’m sure it would be beneficial – good luck with your decision … cheers Hilary
spunkonastick
Hi Diane! I’m sorry, your comment got lost in my email shuffle.
You’ll learn a lot at a conference, but I don’t think as much about writing as about things in general and about marketing and publishing. You’ll get some nuggets for sure, but the best thing about writers’ conferences is the networking. It just depends on how you learn and what motivates you. Do you learn by reading or someone telling you?
dmweiden@gmail.com
You’ve given me several things to think about. I like learning about how other authors find ideas, complete their work and share their stories. I also like to learn about new authors to read and I discover those by listening to panels of authors. Have a good rest of the week!
nchristopherson
While I’ve never attended a conference myself, I’d say if that’s what you need to get motivated, then do it! Truthfully, I’d love to attend a writing conference, even without a published manuscript myself. It would be a great opportunity to network and make friends!
dmweiden@gmail.com
Thanks. It’s a great way to discover new authors who speak on panels, etc. If I like the person on the panel, I’m more likely to read one of their books and then I’m usually hooked. Thanks for your comment. I really appreciate it. Have a good week!