Wednesday, July 24, 2013

Why I still go to writers conferences

It's been a few years since I've attended a conference. When I looked at the brochure that came in my mail a few months ago, I almost tossed it. Classes on Facebook, POV or writing newspaper articles held little or no appeal. Been there done that.

Besides, we're building a new home and the cost is prohibitive. Did I really want to spend money on information I already knew?

One day, my critique partner asked me if I was going. I still hadn't tossed the brochure, but decided it might be fun to hang out with her for a week and meet some other local writers.

Today is Wednesday. Tomorrow is my last day of the conference. I wish it would last forever.

Not only did I make many new connections but I learned more than I thought I would. I have a stack of paperwork waiting for me to go through and apply to my writing. I have fresh and new writing goals. I have renewed energy that maybe someday I will write that better novel.

There is no truth to the adage that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. I am a living example.

11 comments:

Great Grandma Lin said...

sounds fun, I'm going to a statewide conference in Sept. Hope to sell some of my books there.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Yes, I love that buzz I get after a conference. My creativity is renewed and I'm excited again with fresh ideas. And I love meeting other writers. So yep, I still go to conferences too. :)

Sally said...

Sounds like you got a fresh POV. Sometimes just hanging with people who enjoy the same thing is fun enough, happy you came away with a renewed writing spirit. Godspeed.

Carol Garvin said...

I've been going to the Surrey Int'l Writers' Conference every second year since 2004. My DD and I went together last year but decided we absolutely have to go again this fall. I always come home refilled and rejuvenated -- full of fresh enthusiasm for my writing and goals. I think it has a lot to do with being totally immersed in an oversized writing community for several days. :)

Margo Berendsen said...

I tend to think the same way - been there, done that... but I know it's important to keep learning and connecting.

Cheryl Klarich said...

Wow, Terri, that is such a testimony to stepping out and daring to take a risk. I need to do that, too!!!

Thanks for showing me the way!

God bless you!

Sally Wessely said...

This sounds wonderful, Terri. I'm so glad you went. I've never gone to a conference. I want to. Which one did you go to. I know it was in Montrose, but have no idea what state or anything. I'm going to have to do this.

Sharon K. Mayhew said...

I'm so glad you had a good time! I love going to conferences. I'm going to the Story Masters Conference in November. I can hardly wait.

Nas said...

I love going to conference and come back all buzzed up!

verna said...

Thank for this inspirational piece about conferences. I'm just about ready to attend the Greater Philly Christian Writers Conference in just a few days - it's my 25th year!

I've met so many strong connections over the years who have encouraged me in my writing. So grateful for writers conferences, especially this one!

Also, grateful for good blogs, thank you for this one.

BECKY said...

I agree, Terri! I ALWAYS learn something new, meet new friends, network, etc. The last two "small" conferences I attended (one day only) were two that a few years ago I would've said, "I don't write fiction." or "I don't write romance."....But, I'm so glad I attended both!