How to Find a Writing Buddy for Thoughtful Feedback and Motivation
Some of the most successful authors in the world were friends in real life, like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, Charlotte Brontë and Elizabeth Gaskell, and Sylvia Plath and Anne Sexton. Along with the joys of friendship, a writing buddy can offer motivation and structure, thoughtful editorial input, creative inspiration, and more. If you’re struggling to connect with other writers, we’ve rounded up some tips below for making a writing buddy for mutual feedback, companionship, and motivation.
1. Use social media to your advantage.
Social media sites like Instagram offer great opportunities for writers and creatives to connect and collaborate. By sharing your own work, engaging with other writers, and browsing hashtags like #WritingCommunity, #AmWriting, or #PoetryCommunity, you’ll likely stumble upon other creatives whose work aligns with your own. Don’t be afraid to reach out—either through DMs, or in the comments—you might be surprised how open people are to connecting with you.
Don’t know where to start? Try these 5 poetry-related accounts to follow on social media.
2. Go to local writing groups and open mics.
Even the smallest of towns tend to have various writing groups and open mics within driving distance—and these are great events for connecting with other writers in person. Show up, share your own writing, and be sure to let people know when their work stood out to you. Simply attending these events can help you make friends and feel more integrated in your local creative community. For tips on how to prepare for public readings, check out this guide to reading your poetry in public.
3. Post flyers or business cards around town or campus.
One great way to make connections with other local creatives is by posting flyers or leaving business cards at coffee shops, bookstores, or library bulletin boards. For example, you might create a flyer that says something like “Seeking a writing buddy to trade feedback and stay motivated while working on my novel. DM me at [instagram handle] if you’re interested.” Be sure to include the genres you prefer, your email or other contact info, and exactly what you’re looking for so folks are motivated to reach out if they’re a good fit.
4. Take a writing class or workshop.
Arguably the best place to meet other writers is at writing classes or workshops. Classes attract folks who are not only generally interested in writing but also committed to improving their craft—which is exactly the audience you’re looking for if you want to trade thoughtful feedback and critiques. Whether the class is in-person or online, don’t hesitate to exchange contact information with classmates you admire and propose staying in touch for mutual support.
Related reading: 4 Fulfilling Online Courses to Help You Publish Your Poetry
5. Try the buddy system for an inspired, community-building writing practice
A writing buddy can help you improve your craft, build a sense of community, and create shared accountability that pushes each of you to reach your writing goals. We hope these tips help you find a like-minded friend who helps you stay motivated, connected, and inspired.
But remember—this creative connection should be mutual, and it’s as important to give good feedback as it is to receive it. To refresh your editorial skills before reaching out to a writing buddy, check out this article on how to give constructive feedback for poems.
