What is a mentor?
Merriam-Webster defines it as a trusted counselor or guide, tutor, or coach.
To take it one step further, I'd say that a writing mentor is a writer and/or author who has experience beyond one's own abilities and expertise. Would you agree?
I think there are several kinds of mentors. There are those that we have a long term relationship with and others where we gain counsel over short periods of time. Formal or informal, a mentor can offer many benefits, such as:
- Sound advice - Whether for a specific question, genre, or the writer's life in general, they've "been there, done that" and can share time tested counsel and illustrations, lending insight and guidance.
- A good example - They are someone worth emulating, one who possesses credibility and has set a standard worth following.
- An objective opinion - Often we're too close to our own work; a neutral stance offers valuable perspective and feedback.
- Encouragement - Since they've tread where we hope to, they can offer the boost needed to stay the course. This can enhance confidence and productivity.
- A listening ear - Sometimes we just need to talk, no matter where we are on the journey, and a non judgmental ear can help sort things out.
If someone is looking for a writing mentor, where might they find one?
Other avenues include:
- Writing groups - Great local and online options are available for all levels.
- Workshops/conferences - Find regional, national, or online webinars in every genre.
- Social media - Blogs, Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Goodreads, etc.
- Writing courses - The right course can be a great source of info and counsel.
- Coaching - Coaches offer customized, one on one interaction.
While having a writing mentor is not a requirement, it can be a great benefit on our journey. These points illustrate something we probably already know, too. As writing friends, we mentor each other in some way on occasion. So whether we adopt the official title of mentor or not, large or small, our contributions impact others. I think that's a very good thing. :) Thank you all for your part in my writing journey!
My Mentor Story
I met MaryAnn Diorio about 16 years
ago through a New Jersey writing group. This lovely and talented author
was kind enough to help me get over many "newbie writer" hurdles,
lending wisdom, encouragement, and wonderful advice. During this time, I participated in a coaching session she offered by phone, but she graciously answered my questions prior to and after that, and still does to this day.
Early on she said, "Call yourself a writer." That little piece of advice impacted me greatly. It lent the confidence and vision to move forward into what I felt led to do. MaryAnn was also one of my first
editors, signing me on as a contributor to one of her popular
newsletters. I am forever grateful that she took time to invest in my life.
Just in case you didn't know, MaryAnn holds a Ph.D. and MFA, and in addition to coaching, she is a teacher, blogger, and author who's written fiction and non fiction books. I recently had the privilege of reading one of her novels and thought I'd share my review here. If you haven't yet read any of
her work, I encourage you to do so. :)
Book Review - The Madonna of Pisano by MaryAnn Diorio
Maria Landro harbors a horrible secret, one she dare not share with
anyone. Shunned by friends and the community, she works to support her son and
help her mother save the family farm. Local priest Don Franco has secrets of
his own. Terrified that these secrets will come to light, he builds a
complicated web of pride and deceit. Luca Tonneta knows heartache and shame,
but also knows the freedom of God’s redeeming power.
As these three Pisano residents’ lives intersect, they learn much about
themselves and God’s amazing love and power to heal hearts. From realistic characters
to a plot full of heartbreak and secrets, this book offers surprises and a good
dose of grace. MaryAnn Diorio capably shares a difficult and intricate story that
illustrates challenges that most of us can relate to on some level. This story
of forgiveness and redemption held my attention from beginning to end. Two
thumbs up!
Do you think mentors are necessary? Has anyone mentored you on your writing journey? Have you mentored anyone? What are you reading this week?
Happy writing,
