by Ginny Cruz, MPA, PT
You are back home after an exhilarating writers' conference. Colorful business cards from new friends litter your desk. A ton of class notes await your review. And if you are like me, your head spins with all the to-dos. Where do I begin?
Having attended many writers' conferences, most recently the Blue Ridge Christian Writers Conference, where I met many first-time conference attendees, God whispered that I should share some encouragement this month on how to move forward after a conference. Because, let's face it, all those ideas sounded doable while you sipped coffee and chatted with fellow writers. But when you are alone at your desk, it can be hard to know where to start.
Begin With Prayer
One of the most valuable pieces of advice that I have received over the years was offered by Eva Marie Everson, CEO of Word Weavers International, my favorite writers' critique organization. She advised going home and “doing nothing” for about a week. Let your mind and body rest. Begin the second week by praying about the next step to take. Another seasoned writer told me that he put all the business cards and notes face down on the bed. Then he prayed over them, asking God to show him which item to turn over first.
Whatever works for you, the important thing is to begin somewhere. You cannot do everything, and much of it is unnecessary at this stage of your writing journey. For example, I learned a great deal of valuable information about Amazon marketing from Vincent B. Davis, II. All of it is fabulous, but my book won’t hit the shelves for many months. When my book is published, I will need his information.
Last year, I took Edie Melson's class on blogging. Each time I blog, her information is helpful. Information on being interviewed comes in handy when those interviews are coming up. Until then, God has me honed in on writing articles and editing my upcoming book. That is where my focus lies. Ask God where you should begin.
An (Almost) Unbelievable Fact
Did you know that the vast majority of writers who receive invitations to submit work to an agent, editor, or publisher fail to send it? I find that fact almost unbelievable; however, experts confirm it is true.
If you were fortunate enough to receive an approving review and were offered the opportunity to submit something, please send it in. God has opened the door.
If I have learned anything on this writing path, it is the call to be obedient. There are no guarantees of worldly success or awards. God calls us to write and share the words He has given as far and wide as possible. So, send your work promptly and follow all directions carefully.
Follow His Light
The writing path is dimly lit, filled with twists and turns, and poorly marked. All you carry on this path is a lantern (God's word) and your desire to please Him with your work. That lantern provides the only light you have to illuminate your steps. The way forward contains no flashing neon signs saying, "Walk this way!" No, there is just enough light to see your next step.
A wonderful verse to meditate on is, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105 NIV. As you sit and ponder where to begin, go to God and soak in his words. Those words will light your path forward, one step at a time. Finally, know this: He will guide you, but will not make you take that next step. He will walk alongside you as you walk, but you must do the walking. Begin your path forward, and as you take each step, know that God is with you every step of the way.
What are some ways you get going after a writers’ conference?
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