Entering writing contests is one of my favorite things to do, especially if they’re attached to a conference. I’ve been working on several competition entries for a couple of upcoming conferences and having a fabulous time.
I’m attending the Ozark Creative Writers (OCW) Conference in October, and they offered over thirty great contest opportunities this year. The deadline was last Sunday. I submitted eleven pieces of writing to OCW contests. Winners will be announced at a wonderful awards banquet at the close of the conference.
I’m also participating the Ozarks Writers League (OWL) Conference contests this year. I may not be able to attend the conference itself due to a conflicting business trip in October, but I’m not passing up the opportunity to compete.
With twenty-one contests offered and a deadline of August 31st, I’ve been writing my fingers to the bone. Winners will be announced at a ceremony Friday evening prior to the conference, which takes place on Saturday.
In addition, two of my writers’ groups, Ozarks Romance Authors and Sleuths’ Ink Mystery Writers, have a contest each going on right now. I definitely want to enter both of those. They are so much fun. The members of the groups are extremely creative, and I take both joy and inspiration from their work.
I was not a great joiner in my younger years. Aside from 4H in grade school, I didn’t belong to any organizations. There are many reasons, but my social anxiety has always been a huge obstacle. Once I overcame my fear enough to join one group, Joplin Writers’ Guild, I met others who shared my passion for writing great stories. They introduced me to even more writers.
After a few years, I built up the courage to attend a writers conference, which changed my entire writing outlook. One conference led to another and another. They’re a bit addictive. The creative energy that practically floats through the air at one of those gatherings fuels my writing inspiration for a long time. The inspirational thrills are enough to push my anxiety to the back of my mind.
I can’t support myself with my writing at the moment. Perhaps someday. Until then, I will continue to write every chance I get and attend every conference I can swing.
Where do you find your inspiration?
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