This week is undoubtedly going to be one of the busiest I’ve had in a while, but it’s also going to be a very exciting time, as well.
For those navigating the path to publishing, we all realize that there are necessary steps in attaining our goals. I’ve mentioned these before:
- Become involved with local and national writing organizations. Affiliation with these groups speaks professionalism. They hold us to accountability. They are a like-minded support system for our mutual interest in our craft.
- Take classes, courses, and workshops to improve upon our craft. Whatever genre we write in, continued learning is key.
- Use a (qualified) critique partner. They catch those pesky typos that our own eyes may miss. A critique partner can also tell us what’s working and what’s not.
- Continue to write! Once a manuscript is out on submission to an agent or editor, allow for a brief respite and then plunge in again. Beginning a new work keeps us sane during the waiting process.
Also, when opportunities present themselves to hone our skills and further our craft, we should take advantage of them. One such opportunity is the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) yearly conference.
ACFW is a nationally recognized organization with over 2,000 members worldwide. It consists of authors, editors, agents, publicists, and aspiring writers. (More information can be found by going to the above link. ACFW has a fantastic, easy-to-navigate website.)
About the conference…Preparing for the ACFW conference is no small feat. Many members register months in advance to be assured of hotel room availability, specific workshops and continuing education sessions, and agent/editor appointments. (I registered for the conference in June.)
I’m excited about meeting my agency mates and making new friends. This will be the first ACFW conference I’ve attended and I’m thrilled to be a part of it!
It’s going to be a great time of learning, sharing, and fellowshipping with other Christian writers.
On Wednesday I’ll discuss some of the ways writers can prepare for a national writing conference.
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Have you experienced a “double rainbow kind of week” during your writing career? Tell us about it!
Comments 12
I wish you stress-free preparations and smooth flights. I’m looking forward to meeting you in person. It’s not long now. =)
Author
Good grief, I’m already tearing up, Keli! See you soon!
We are having a double rainbow kind of week. Part has to do with my writing…and part of it involves my son.
Have a great time at the conference. I pray for you to have safe travels and an awesome event.
Author
Thank you, Loree!
I’m tickled that you’re having a great week! May God bless you as you proceed!
Wow, I can’t believe the big week is already here! Can’t wait to see you soon, Cynthia. 🙂
Author
Back at you, Sarah! 🙂
What is it about rainbows that plasters a smile to my face?
I’m so glad you’re having a great week. Happy prepping! I’m
looking forward to your post on Wed. I have yet to attend a
national conference but plan on going to one in the next year.
Knowing how to prep for one in advance would be great. 🙂
Author
The ACFW has a “newbie” loop in place for those who are new to the conference. The hostesses have done a superb job in keeping first-time attendees informed about everything from A to Z. This loop’s information has been invaluable, Tanya.
So glad you’re having a great week–and it’s only Monday! That’s a great start, Cynthia.
Author
Thanks, Patti!
You’ve probably gotten a ton of these…but I nominated you for a Versatile Blogger award today. Your blog is an inspiration to me, constantly! Thank you!
Author
Jeff, thanks so much! I’m completely humbled.
May your day be blessed.