I remember when I first started writing, I never wanted anyone to read my work. It felt too embarrassing and vulnerable. Now, however, after becoming accustomed to peer reviews and edits in an academic setting, I can recognize the benefits of having someone look over my work with a fresh set of eyes.
When I write, I tend to mentally fill in any blanks I may have. I can be completely missing an explanation for a plot point, but because I know exactly what is meant to happen and why, it doesn’t feel like something is missing. However, when someone else who is unaware of what I was trying to do reads over my work, they can let me know if what I’m saying is clear or if I need to add or take something away. This is extremely helpful because I am able to get insight from a person who is removed from the writing process and unbiased. This makes all the difference in the editing process because the editing can be more thorough.
Having another writer available as you are starting a new project is also helpful because they are bound to have insight, skills, and feedback that you may not otherwise have access to. For example, they may be able to tell you what to avoid if you are looking to self-publish or send your work to a publisher if they have experience with those things. A collaboration should be mutually beneficial because both writers have different experiences that can help both of them grow. They can teach you things that they have learned during their writing journey, and you can teach them what you know.
A writing partner can also prevent procrastination. When you have someone relying on you to write or come up with ideas, it’s less likely that you will procrastinate. There is also someone who is motivating you to write. A writing partner can inspire you as well because you are likely to be bouncing ideas off one another.
If you are writing with a writing partner, your work can be marketed to more people. Not only are you promoting your work in your community, but your partner is promoting the work in their circle. This allows for the word to spread quicker and farther than it would if you had just written by yourself. Marketing is an unexpected benefit to having a writing partner, but it’s a wonderful benefit, nonetheless. This can also help get you networking opportunities as your partner or your writing team are likely to introduce you to their circle of people in order to spread the word about the upcoming project.
Finding a local writing group can be extremely beneficial to you. There are websites and Facebook groups that allow you to work with others virtually, as well. It is important to have someone who can review your work and give you an unbiased opinion of it while also providing useful feedback for improvement, and a writing partner can give you just that. It’s a great idea to take into consideration as you begin or continue your project.
