By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
Is there something missing in your writing life? Could there be a surprise additive to the list of how to succeed in the world of publishing? Is mentoring another serious writer for you?
I believe so. In fact, I know so.
To be blessed, one must be a blessing to others. It’s simple. Biblical too. If I ever think I’m too big to help a new writer, God may think I’m too small for publication.
Has a more successful writer taken you under her wing? Did that writer teach you technique and recommend how-to books, workshops, and conferences? Was she your nightmare editor and your best cheerleader?
Did she:
- Take a personal interest in you?
- Brainstorm ideas and various ways to present your story?
- Challenge you to write stronger?
- Push you into social media?
- Make you cry and then encourage you to keep writing?
If you had a mentor who loved you enough to not let you write garbage, you are fortunate. I had a mentor, and now I am one.
Some veterans are willing to help a new writer who is committed to developing the craft. Those people make time to ensure another rises to her full potential. Both the mentor and the writer make sacrifices: time and effort. Rewrites. Trudging through line edits.
The Greeks understood the dynamics of mentoring. Nestled deep in their mythology is the story of aging Mentor who imparted wisdom to Telemachus, the son of Odysseus. The name came to mean someone who shared wisdom and knowledge with someone less experienced—a faithful and wise adviser.
Think about your part in helping new writers. Do you want to teach others? Such a commitment partners with one to educate ourselves in the craft. Time restraints and family and job responsibilities may prevent you from participating. That’s okay. Your current role may be simply to learn more about the craft. There are other ways to give back, such as a critique group, a monthly writers group, or a faithfulness to pray for new writers.
Kay Arthur said, “You have been created by God and for God, and someday you will stand amazed at the simple yet profound ways He has used you even when you weren’t aware of it.”
If supporting and encouraging writers is in your future, prepare for the rewards of blessing others.
Are you ready to mentor another writer?
DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. Her 
titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists; won two Christy Awards; and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. Firewall, the first book in her Houston: FBI series, was listed by Library Journal as one of the best Christian Fiction books of 2014.
DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Suspense Sister, and International Thriller Writers. She is co-director of The Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference with social media specialist Edie Melson. She teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is active online and would love to connect with readers on any of the social media platforms listed at www.diannmills.com.
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