Here’s some advice from a somewhat-newbie romance writer: There’s a lot to learn about writing than just sitting in front of a computer and putting fingers to keyboard. Yes, it is important to write every day, hone your craft and read within your genre every day. But, there’s one crucial thing I think aspiring writers omit: being proactive.

By being proactive, I’m talking about involvement in your professional and intellectual growth as a writer, i.e. learning about the business before you’re published. Our craft and love is for writing, but every day we have reminders this is a business as well. Be proactive – learn the craft, learn the business.

We’re all new when we start, no matter what the background. Many of the names you see here at RWA-WF have the experience to provide invaluable insight to help you make informed decisions when your career kicks off.

Even RWA-WF is new to RWA, but the chapter is evolving quickly. Workshops will be starting soon. A critique group is in the works. A seminar with a major speaker is planned for this year’s RWA conference.

With less than three years under my belt with RWA, I consider myself a newbie. And, I’m certain being a part of RWA-WF is helping me stay proactive about my writing career.