Writing Partners ~ Support Team

So today is my last official ROW80 Progress check in. It's been a fantastic 80 days of setting goals, writing, and connecting with other writers. The official ROW80 was comprised of a boatload of writers, which was great. But I was blessed to connect a bit more personally with three lovely ladies--my Support Team.

We've been cheering and checking in with each other on Twitter, Facebook, and our weekly posts. It's given me a deeper sense of community as well as accountability. Setting goals and having someone to report to has been motivating. If I didn't meet a goal, that was okay. I was surprised the weight a simple tweet from my support team, telling me I could meet my goal or congratulating me when I did, carried. A tweet of encouragement can go a long way. *wink*

It's all about support, building that foundation of confidence and belief.

I found it quite different from working with critique partners. Where Critique Partners edit, discuss, and guide our physical manuscripts, Support Partners are solely to encourage and create a positive atmosphere, keeping us focused on our writing goals. That's not saying CPs don't embrace the same encouraging attitude that Support Partners do because they do.

As for the writing goals I set back in April, I'm pleased to say I've had wonderful progress and success.

GOAL #1 ~ to complete a full REwrite of my YA Paranormal Romance, MARKED BEAUTY. And I have. I'm currently fine tuning the manuscript per amazing CP suggestions and edits.

GOAL #2 ~ to edit my three picture books. I've finished one and am still working on the other, hoping to find them a publishable home soon. (THX Kelly!)

GOAL #3 ~ to continue developing and outlining my two MG projects and other YA novel. Not as much progress here as I'd like, but I have refined goals and plots for all three projects.

All-in-all, creating a Support Team has done wonders for me. My fabulous support team consists of C.Lee McKenzie, Susan Kaye Quinn, & Margo Berendsen, and we've decided to keep tabs on each other, checking in from time to time. I have yet to develop our badge but I'm hoping to soon. We'd love to have others participate. The more the merrier and the more support to go around. MORE TO COME ON THIS. I'll keep you posted.

If you think you'd be interested, let me know in the comments and I'll start a list on another page. :)