In a post on Writers in the Storm, Diana Stout examines the importance of accountability for writers. “I always considered myself a self-starter as a writer but found writing difficult to pursue regularly as a new writer,” she says. “It was difficult writing day after day with no other writers to talk to frequently and regularly.” Along came the internet and – spoiler alert – spending time online didn’t increase Stout’s productivity.
Over time, however, Stout created accountability groups with her peers. “Accountability isn’t someone looking over your shoulder, or being critical or disapproving if don’t meet your goal(s),” she says. “Accountability is having support, where your successes are applauded, no matter how big or small, and even when you’re non-productive.”
Could this work for you? According to Stout, her group reports that:
- They are writing more.
- They are finishing more projects in less time.
- They have developed a supportive and sympathetic atmosphere for when things don’t go well, as well as a cheerleading squad when things work
What might such a group look like? You can try anything, but you might consider:
- Reporting your daily word count or writing hours to a group
- Creating a critique or brainstorming group
- Setting aside shared writing time in-person or online
But how can you find accountability partners? “You have to date,” Stout says. Writing groups are a good place to start. “Approach individuals within the group, rather than making a general announcement,” Stout suggests. “Do the same in social media writing groups unless you’re not allowed to message privately. Be sure to state what type of partner you’re looking for: a brainstorming partner, a reporting partner, an alpha reader, a beta reader, and so forth.”
Check out potential group members by reviewing their profiles, websites, and published work, if they have any. Then decide how often you’ll meet, when and how you’ll communicate, what kind of accountability you’ll agree to, and whether you’ll share writing.
