Is solo writing or an online writing course right for you? My belief is that community and support are vital components on the journey to becoming a published children’s book author.
The image of an author whisking themselves away to a secluded cabin or beachfront cottage, hunched over a typewriter, is a classic trope. In fact, it’s tempting to believe that isolation is the key to unpacking all creativity.
There’s truth to it. I agree that there’s something special about being alone with a blank page and your thoughts. It’s that time when you can give your undivided focus to your work and truly immerse yourself in the writing experience.
Solitude certainly has its place in the writing process, but it's far from the whole story. I have found that solo writing can only get you so far.
What happens when the writer’s block sets in?
Or the isolation leads to burnout?
Where do you turn when the self-doubt creeps in and tells you to give up?
What about when you finish your first draft, but you second guess if it is actually good enough?
These are moments when the solitary path can feel isolating or overwhelming. But it’s in these moments that the true value of a writing community becomes apparent.
When you have an online writing group to turn to…
- Writer's block becomes a brainstorming session.
- Burnout transforms into shared encouragement.
- Self-doubt is replaced with reassured confidence.
- Drafts evolve into finished pieces through feedback.
I wholeheartedly believe being involved in an online writing course is exactly what authors need in addition to their writing process.
The Four Things To Look for in an Online Writing Course
Accountability
Accountability is everything when it comes to achieving goals. Surround yourself with fellow writers who can help you stay on track and motivated.
Here are the layers of accountability an online writing course should provide:
- You can share your deadlines for writing so that you stay consistent.
- You can discuss your ideas, progress, and challenges with others.
- You can recognize and celebrate milestones and achievements with others.
Community
Community is not only great for encouragement but for practical support too. We learn so much from like-minded people! There’s a saying that goes, “We are the sum of the five people we spend the most time with.” Surrounding yourself with a community helps motivate you, overcome challenges, and refine your craft.
Why is community so important?
- You can share knowledge by exchanging tips and resources.
- You receive the emotional and practical support you need throughout your writing journey.
- You can find inspiration from the creativity and achievements of other writers.
Mentorship
Find a seasoned writer—or even better, a published author—who can provide guidance and advice to help you grow in the craft. An online writing course will allow you to surround yourself with aspiring authors who share the same passion and goals. All children’s authors aim to inspire readers.
Having a mentor can be incredibly beneficial because:
- They have experience, can provide insights into the writing process, and can share industry-specific knowledge.
- They can offer honest, constructive feedback to help you improve your writing and storytelling.
- They can answer your questions, help you avoid mistakes, and navigate the complexities of writing and publishing a children's book.
Rediscover Your Why
Always remind yourself WHY you are writing your book. This is the ultimate motivator. Joining an online writing course can help you stay connected to your “why”—encouraging you to remain passionate throughout the process and follow your calling of becoming a published author.
It can be easy to lose sight of your original motivation at times, especially when you are in the weeds of writing, but an online course can:
- Help inspire and motivate you to stay true to your "why"
- Provide constant reminders of your goals and the reasons you started writing.
- Give opportunities for reflection.
Writing can be a lonely job at times, but it doesn't have to be 100% of the time. When you join an online writing course, you’ll gain support, feedback, guidance, a structured learning environment, and mentorship.
Whether it’s through a Facebook group or a structured program, an online community can be just what you need to achieve your dreams of writing a children’s book.
When you feel the temptation to go it alone, remember this:
- Community offers inspiration.
- Community helps you grow.
- Community provides accountability.
- Community is a place to connect.
- Community is a designated space where you can belong.
I hope you find an amazing group of aspiring authors to surround yourself with. If you’re longing for a supportive author community and searching for expert mentorship, I encourage you to check out my hybrid publishing program, Publishing Mastermind. Every aspiring author who joins this mastermind leaves with a published hard copy of their own book. This is your chance to write, publish, and launch your book into the market, so you can start inspiring future generations through your incredible words.