Solo Writing Retreat: Making the Most of the Time

Writing can be such a lonely endeavor.

I remember feeling isolated when working on my first novel because
a.) no one else knows what I’m thinking,
b.) no one besides me knows who these characters are, and
c.) no one can see how the plot will unfold.

I felt like I was annoying my friends who aren’t writers when I talked about my book project. In my mind, I had trouble viewing myself as a “real” author, and I was afraid people wouldn’t take my writing goal seriously. Who did I think I was? I couldn’t actually write a novel.

But then, I did.

And now, I’m doing it again.

But, I want this time to be different.

I’m trying to build a bookish/writing virtual community so I can network, feel supported, and won’t feel so alone when tackling a huge project like this. Writing a 60,000+ word novel is no joke! 😅

I am also seeking out opportunities to improve my skills as a writer.

That means trying to be more consistent about blogging, setting writing goals, exploring other writing genres like poetry to stretch my writing limits, researching writing tips, and reading more books. After all, if you want to be a better writer, one of the best ways to improve is to read more books!

I also love the idea of attending a writing workshop, retreat, or conference. I’ve had the opportunity to do that a few times in the past, and I have loved it every single time.

The only problem is that writing ain’t my full time gig. I have a very demanding full-time job that I love.

Since I work in the education field, I am lucky enough to get an abbreviated summer break each year (usually 3 weeks or so), which brings me to the unique opportunity I have next week and where I need YOUR help.

I have set aside 3 full days next week to do my own solo writing retreat.

My big goals are:

1. Work on my novel (My goal is to finish the first draft by August 1st, but I have a LONG way to go!).
2. Write some blog posts that I can schedule to post later.
3. Create some social media posts to help build my bookish/writing virtual community.

So, what suggestions do you have? Have you attended an in-person or virtual writing retreat, either solo or with a group? If so, what were the things you loved most?

Please share your suggestions so I can make the most of this time. Even better, feel free to join me in setting some goals and doing your own retreat!