How to find an Accountability Partner for your Writing
Why do I need an accountability partner?
Many people want to write a book. Most give up.
It’s a rare person who can accomplish great things in a vacuum. Most of us need someone to push and prod us and commiserate with us.
Writing a book is a long and difficult journey. If you don’t have a cheering squad in your corner, or at least a fellow writer to commiserate with, there’s a good chance you’ll be one of the many who don’t make it across the finish line.
Use these suggestions to find an accountability partner for your writing, so you can cross the finish line.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. Writing Accountability Partners are good for
cheering your every little success, no matter how small
encouraging you through the rejections, blocks, and other tough times
keeping your butt in the chair and making sure you’re getting words on the page even when you don’t feel like it
reminding you why you’re doing this hard thing
asking you questions, which can help you gain clarity (about your characters, storyline, or even writer’s block)
How do I find an accountability partner?
There are many ways to find an accountability partner.
Writing groups on social media
Writing classes (local and virtual)
Attending conferences by writing organizations
NaNoWriMo
Hire a book coach
Writing Groups
Being a part of the community of writers is the first step to finding an accountability partner.
The easiest way to get started down this path is by joining some writing groups on social media. You can join several and then see which one fits your vibe. Focus on making connections. Some of these groups seem overwhelming based on the sheer number of members, but oftentimes, smaller groups branch off from the main one. You can lurk for a while and work on making authentic connections that organically grow deeper. Or you can immediately put out the call for an accountability partner. Chances are good, there’s another writer in the group who is looking for the same thing.
In-person writing groups can be another great way to partner with like-minded individuals wanting an accountability partner. These groups can be harder to find. Do some digging online and also check the calendars of your local libraries and bookstores.
In her book The Business of Being a Writer, Jane Friedman talks about additional benefits of literary citizenship and being a part of the literary community.Writing Classes
If you’ve been toying with the idea of taking a writing class (whether online or in person), I say go for it. Long-lasting connections can come out of this place where many writers are dedicated to honing their craft and trying to give it more of their time and attention.
Writing Conferences
Conferences are definitely not cheap, but for me they’ve been worth their weight in gold. The first writing conference I attended (in person) was by the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). It was overwhelming, but inspiring and extremely educational. Knowing this was an opportunity, I forced myself to put myself out there and make connections. A local critique group of kid-lit writers (which I now run) came out of one of these conferences. Our monthly meetings spur me to get words on the page even when I otherwise don’t feel motivated to do so.
If you’ve been thinking about attending a writing conference, I encourage you to do so. Even online conferences can lead to long-term connections.
NaNoWriMo
There are differing opinions on participating in National Novel Writing Month (each November). Many people have had success with it and have found local writers through this avenue.
You can read more about the Pros and Cons of NaNoWriMo to decide if it’s a good fit for you. Hiring Book Coach
Sometimes we need more than an organic connection with other writers to get our book written. Hiring a book coach takes the idea of an accountability partner to the next level.
Many professionals hire coaches, why shouldn’t you?
Things book coaches can help with:
breaking through writer’s block
ideas for productivity enhancement
helping you find your best time to write
feedback on your story
a reader’s perspective
market trends
industry expectations
next steps for your book
lots more
Learn more about my Pink Pen Book Coaching services. How do I get the most out of my accountability partner?
Okay, so you have found an accountability partner. Hooray! Now what?
If this person is someone other than a book coach, you need to work to ensure the partnership doesn’t fizzle out. Check in regularly with each other.
Be sure it’s a two-way partnership. Give as much support as you want to get. Practice being a constant cheerleader. And be clear about what you need from your accountability partner in return.
Communication is key. But so are realistic expectations. Don’t be demanding of the other person’s time or you might drive them away.
Sometimes it takes a little trial and error to find a great accountability partner. If you find you don’t really mesh with the person you’ve chosen to partner with, find a kind way to move on. But always remember the importance of literary citizenship.