There is a skill that all writers must possess and use at some point in their journey in order to realize any level of success.

Writers must be collaborative team members.

I currently have three creative collaborations under way. My writers workshop is planning a reading on Sunday, 1 May; I’m working with a web designer and developer to create a new website; and I’m working with my publisher and agent on the arrangements for my next novel.

While writing is a daily solitary effort, it is only solitary when I’m writing. Being flexible enough to work well with other creative people is essential to growth in one’s craft. The writer can’t accomplish all that needs done by himself. Instead, the writer must regularly see himself as leading a team of equals, a team of creative and skilled people, all working toward the goal of reaching readers.

I have learned to welcome others into my creative space, and see them as essential partners in my creative goals. We were created for community, not hermitage. And this applies in the arts as well.