Build a Writing Group That Actually Works: 3 Simple Steps to Support, Structure, and Momentum

Most writing groups fizzle because they’re built without clarity, structure, or shared purpose. This guide offers three simple steps (plus pro tips and scripts!) to build a writing group that supports your scholarly momentum without draining your energy.

Prefer to join a group where the structure’s already set and all you have to do is show up? Join the waitlist for my paid virtual writing retreats, designed to offer deep focus and soft structure.

In this week’s main post, I wrote about how we’re rarely taught to build writing groups that protect our energy and support our research. And yet, these groups can be game changers for our mental health and scholarly momentum.

When we do receive guidance, it often focuses on logistics: when to meet, how long to write, and whether to use timers or set word count goals.

This post is different.

Here, I’m distilling the lessons I’ve learned over a decade as a member, founder, and facilitator of writing groups—especially with scholars of color navigating academia’s unique pressures.

If you're ready to lead or join a group that helps you write more and feel more supported along the way, this guide is for you.

Don’t worry—you won’t leave overwhelmed.

I’ve condensed my best practices into three easy-to-follow steps (+ one bonus insight), each with a pro tip or sample script to help you avoid common missteps.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash