Support Your Local Writer

The writing life is lonely. We spend long hours behind the computer screen, with only the click of the keyboard to keep us company. We don’t get to see the results of our work very often. The only reward that we (sometimes) receive is a check.

It’s also difficult for many of us to ask for recommendations. It feels too much like begging for compliments. After all, we’re already gifted wordsmiths with the muse on our shoulder. Why would we need another ego boost?

It is sad to say that many excellent writers give up, because they have no outside motivation. There is no cheering squad on the sidelines, pushing them on. Many write through adversity, and through quizzical stares. Friends and family look on, shaking their heads. “A writer? Is she for real? When’s she going to get a real job?”

So in honor of the holiday season, I’m giving a personal shoutout to a few of the best blog posts I’ve read lately. (I just culled through my bookmarks, and I have quite a few to share.)

I’m also issuing a challenge to each of my readers. For every good writer you know out there, take a moment out of your day to give them a pat on the back. Let them know that you appreciate their words, and that all their hard work has not been in vain.

Who knows? Your encouragement could push them on to greatness.

Here’s my current list. It changes all the time, as I find new blogs daily. So if you aren’t on here, stop by and let me know. I’ll be happy to check out your writing, and let you know what I think.

In no particular order…

• Separating Work from Home When You Work from Home by Deborah Ng of Freelance Writing Jobs
• You Are a Writer by Mark David Gerson of The Voice of Your Muse
• Quantum Improvements by Ryan Healy of Ryan M. Healy
• Bloggers and the Wall: Breaking Through Barriers by Rebecca Laffar-Smith of Writer’s Roundabout
• The Ultimate Productivity Toolbox for Creative People by Tamar Weinberg of Lateral Action
• 18 Ways to be Uber Creative by Marelisa Fabrega of Abundance Blog
• My Time is Not Money by Zoe Westof of Essential Prose

I want to send a personal thank you to each of these authors. Your words have touched me. They have made a difference in my life. I am not the same person I was before I read these words.

Readers, in the spirit of the holidays, won’t you stop by your favorite blogs, and let your authors know how much you appreciate them?

Thank you for your kind words, to all of them. It makes a difference to the writing community at large to hear them.