Is Your Writing Off Track? Get an Accountability Buddy by Mary Boone

Without running partners, I’m certain I never would have completed my first marathon. After all, it’s easy to come up with reasons not to run: It’s raining. Work was hard. There’s a new episode of “Scandal” on TV. Knowing that someone else has laced up her shoes and is waiting for you creates a sort of accountability.

Writing is very much the same.

You teach, you attend staff meetings, drive soccer carpool, and grade dozens of not-always-awesome essays. With so many must-do activities, it’s easy for writing to become something that can wait. And when the next day is equally exhausting, writing waits again. And again. And before you know it, you’re writing only as often as you’re changing the batteries in your smoke detector.

That can all change with the help of a writing partner.

A writing partner is a teammate who encourages and supports you through long days, lack of focus, looming deadlines – and you do the same for them. The two of you set writing goals and hold each other accountable. Together, you celebrate victories and compete to get published or set writing streaks.

Writing groups, both in person and virtual, are good places to begin your search for a writing partner. A coworker, neighbor or friend may also fit the bill. The two of you should have mutual respect and feel comfortable sharing your work with each other.

Once you make a connection, you must decide how your partnership will work: How often and by what means will you communicate? Will you simply share goals or will you also critique each other’s work? Your partnership may not operate like anyone else’s. That’s OK, as long as it’s providing the support you need.

Here’s to keeping your writing on track, with a little help from a friend.


Mary Boone is a Tacoma, Wa.,-based writer. She leads writing workshops at local high schools and community colleges. Connect with Mary at www.boonewrites.com or on Twitter at @boonewrites