Finding Forrester, a movie from the the turn of this century, depicts a recluse Pulitzer Prize winning author named Forrester who befriends a young, gifted writer and coaches him to improve his work.
The depiction of Forrester in this film is what most people consider when they think of an author. The characterization of one who works long hours alone, frantically typing in a dark cluttered apartment while rarely going out to embrace the outside world is the standard opinion of the life of a writer.
Yet, it could not be further from the truth.
Those who have the gifting along with the calling to write are marked by a contrasting persona. Today’s accomplished writers may still prefer the solitude in their work but they relish in their engagement with others who share the same passion.
There are five things every writer needs to flourish in their role as an author.
COMMUNITY
Everyone needs someone who “gets” them. When you realize you have a message to share with the world through your writing, you may find your current circle of friends and even your family just don’t understand your passion. Finding a community of like-minded individuals who are in different stages of the writer journey will be of great benefit.
These community groups can be found both online and in person. For example: The She Writes for Him Tribe meets virtually and brings to its members a weekly gathering that includes connection with those in the group, Q&A coaching sessions, teaching from industry experts, and encouragement to writers in every stage of the journey.
Groups like this are numerous and offer the expertise you need to grow as a writer. One local group we can point you to is the Northwest Christian Writers. Intentional connections with other writers will bring you reassurance that you have a friend who will walk beside you as your write your next book!
CONFERENCES
Training is a huge need for writers in every stage of the process. Being a life-long learner will expand your gifting to write and give you the tools to become more skilled in your craft.
Conferences and trainings are hosted all over the country at various times of this year. When you attend you find that you will receive valuable instruction in writing, marketing, and speaking.
By attending these events you will be informed of current trends within the industry to assist you on your journey to be published. Along with all the training and encouragement from the faculty you will gain a circle of friendships that will support you. These events are attended by people just like you who want to learn more as well as faculty members consisting of agents, editors, coaches, publishers, and more.
There are so many conferences to attend that often it is hard to choose the right one to invest your time and money.
In person conferences that are recommend are Speak Up for both writers and speakers, Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference, Florida Christian Writers Conference, and Northwest Christian Writers Renewal. And since every writer is a speaker the Christian Communicators Conference will guide you to present the message of your book with excellence!
There are also virtual conferences to attend such as the She Writes for Him Greater Things Conference and Roar Marketing Conference. These virtual events not only give you amazing teaching but offer you Zoom workshops for hands-on experiences with industry experts.
COACHING
Every writer needs a coach. The role of a coach in the writing process is to guide the author to create the best content possible for their reader. Coaches assist in organization, brainstorming ideas and content creation. They bring clarity and consistency to your work and advise you through each step of your manuscript.
Having a coach to cheer you on when the writing gets hard, someone who will challenge you towards creating an excellent product, is invaluable. Having a professional who is intimately involved in your work will take your book to a level of quality you would not be able to offer on your own.
Finding a good coach who is the right fit for you requires, first and foremost, a vibrant relationship with Jesus. Using a trusted source that will guide you through the process is vital. Anyone can call themselves and editor or writing coach, so it’s important to work with someone you know has been vetted. Those in your community can offer suggestions or you can contact a trusted publishing house to guide you. Redemption Press offers Christian writing coaches for every genre who will work side-by-side with you as your write.
CHRIST
If you are writing a book that will reach the Christian sector or perhaps those who still need the truth of the gospel and the hope it brings, you need Christ.
One of the most crucial elements of a Christian author is to be in tune with the heart of the Father. Listening to Him, looking for Him and allowing Him to guide each step.
This can only happen through a personal relationship that is cultivated every day through prayer, reading the Word, and surrounding yourself with other believers.
The message you have been given to write must pour out of a heart that is overwhelmed by the Spirit! A book that stems from this relationship will engage the reader in truth that will transform their lives.
CALL
Which leads to the final thing every writer needs and that is a calling from God!
Writing a book for the believer is not just about getting words on a page and publishing it to make money. Your book is so much more than that!
The message God has given you has a divine purpose and will bring hope to the ones who read it. Some people share their story from the stage and other simply through a conversation over coffee with a friend. Everyone has a story and a message to share, but not everyone is called to write it.
When you realize God is calling you to write your message and publish it to reach a world beyond those in your current circle, you have been given a great responsibility.
We encourage you to take the steps needed to publish with determination, for when God calls you to do something, He will provide a way to accomplish it! You may not feel qualified in the moment if this is a new venture for you, but rest assured, you are in good company. Almost everyone who has sensed this calling walked in a place of uncertainty for a time. Yet, as they began to find their COMMUNITY, attend CONFERENCES, get COACHING, and lean into CHRIST they found the CALLING to write a book was a gift from God. As they moved forward in obedience a whole new world opened to them and the book that emerged was embraced by their reader who would then be forever changed!
So, take these five things with confidence to take that next step to write your book and know that there are those who cheer you on and celebrate every accomplishment along the way!
For more information on these five things go to RedemtionPress.com and let us assist you on your publishing journey!
If you are ready to start your publishing journey or just want to chat, start your journey with Redemption Press. Find out more by booking a free call with the Redemption Press Team!
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