Sounds like I’m asking you to say something profound like “My child’s laughter” or “Kittens,” but what I’m really asking is, what does it or will it take to get you to write? Do you need a cheerleader? Theme music? A deadline? Time?

If you are looking for the “write” motivation, sometimes you need a mentor — someone who’s been through writer’s block, who’s done time looking for agents and publishers, someone who knows the joys of being a published author, someone who also enjoys sharing that journey in a one-on-one educational environment.

There are amazing folks on Twitter, like @Wordstrumpet, @RabbiRami, @AveryOslo, @PlanetAlvina, @NathanBransford, @Copyblogger, @thecreativepenn. However, before this becomes a #FollowFriday post, my point is that even though al lof these amazing writers and agents can be found giving sage advice online, sometimes you really need someone to get to know you and what does and does not motivate you, discover your story and help you give your writing purpose.

I have been lucky enough to get introduced to the great folks behind The Writer’s Loft (disclaimer: they are now a client), a low-residency Certificate Program held at MTSU in Middle Tennessee. I’ve heard them talk with a passion for the people that go through the program, and I’ve also had the pleasure of hearing testimonials first hand from “students” like @DavidHPaine who now writes two successful blogs, as well as books.

It made me wish there were even more programs like this one out there, and there are a few, but wouldn’t it be a trip if aspiring writers everywhere were able to able to fertilize their talents and dreams in an ongoing productive mentorship environment like The Writer’s Loft?

What or who helps you get the most out of your writing?

Filed under: Advice, authors, blogging, goals, writing