Quick Writing Tip: Surround Yourself With Supporters

theliteraryarchitect:

If you have people in your life who aren’t 100% supportive, excited, and over-the-top enthusiastic about your pursuit of writing, now is the time to start weeding them out if possible. Writing is hard enough without people who discourage you or think you’re wasting your time. If you’re sensitive, even a general lack of interest from close friends or family can be crushing. Know what kind of support you need and get it whenever you can. Both you and your writing will benefit.

If possible, have a talk with your family and friends about how much your writing means to you and what you need from them.

Don’t date someone who doesn’t care about your writing.

Don’t expose yourself to other people’s jealousy, disinterest, or disapproval about your writing if you can avoid it.

Make friends with people who are excited for you. Who think you’re on the right path. Who want to see you succeed. Who want to read your writing. Who get wide-eyed with excitement when you mention your latest project.

Whenever possible stay away from money-obsessed capitalist conformists, blocked writers and artists (people who wish they were making art but aren’t and hate everyone else who is), and pompous members of the literary elite. They are unlikely to be your allies.

If you are new to writing or you have lived a lifetime of allowing soul-crushing people into your intimate space, it may take a while to gather a solid group of supporters and change or end your relationships with those who aren’t truly on your side. Start now. It will be worth it in the long run, I promise. <3