by Alena Tauriainen, writing as @AlendaWendall

I help facilitate the My Book Therapy retreats. My main job during the events is the care and feeding of the attendees. But I’m also watching, listening … and yes, sometimes I hear things. Today, I wanted to share some of my observations:

1. Eat Well, Write Well. Sorry,  but a steady diet of chocolate chip cookies and malted milk balls are not conducive to clear thinking and well-developed plot lines. Although they do help stabilize emotions, at least at the moment. When all else fails, have a malted milk ball instead of a meltdown.
2. Battle Uncertainty. I’ve heard, “I thought I had my story down, but now I’m not so sure.” It’s so easy to doubt yourself and question the validity of your writing. Just because a mentor or a teacher tells you the story needs to change, it doesn’t mean you can’t write. Listen to the voice of experience and be open to making the changes necessary to strengthen your plot and deepen the characters. In this case, change is good and proves your growth as a writer.
3. Know When To Stop. When the scene isn’t working or you can’t seem to get past the wall, it’s okay to say enough for today. Banging your head against the wall tends to be painful, not productive. Walk away for a moment and return when your mind is refreshed.
4. Expand Your Perspective. Brainstorming with others is a tremendous asset and gives you fresh ideas and insight. Even if you don’t use another writer’s idea, respect it.
5. Take Advantage Of Your Friends. And let them take advantage of you. I’ve developed the most amazing friendships because I’ve attended My Book Therapy writers retreats. It’s awesome to have people around you, who speak the same “writing lingo” as you. They get it. They know what the Dark Moment is and when you get stuck, they can help pull it out.
6. Utilize Community. Become A Stronger Writer. It’s great to hang around and brainstorm, but ultimately it comes down to you. Only you can take what you’ve learned and apply it to the story you’ve created. Once you’ve attended the conference, do the work and see it through. You will be glad you did.

The next time you attend a writers retreat or conference, see what bits of wisdom you can pick up by eavesdropping on conversations with writing friends and teachers so you can continue to grow as a writer.

Writing as Alena Wendall, Alena Tauriainen pens contemporary Christian romance novels that always end with a happily ever after. By day, she partners with her lifelong mate Clyde, to run the family HVAC business. She manages both business and family life with four lovable but crazy kids. She is the Retreats Coordinator for My Book Therapy. She is represented by Rachelle Gardner with Books & Such Literary Management. Visit her at alenawendall.com.