The Importance of Finding Your Writing Community

By HJ Perry

15 years ago I subscribed to all the writing magazines, attended many writer-focused events and joined every writing group I could find in real life and online.

Some writing “communities” felt like businesses that saw me as a customer. Some were intimidating—filled with “expert” writers where I was sure I’d be ridiculed for saying something stupid (which happens to be my secret superpower). Others were kind and focused on the craft of writing but weren’t centred on earning a sustainable income from writing.

Then, in 2015, I joined Dirty Discourse (DD). At first, I was overwhelmed. There was so much information available behind those community walls that I didn’t know where to begin. It was clear many members were making a successful living as writers, but I wasn’t sure how to tap into that wealth of knowledge.

For months, I would drop by and occasionally make a post—just enough to avoid seeming like a complete lurker. The real turning point came when I attended an event: the very first London DD gathering in January 2016. The experience changed my life; I learned so much and started to earn decent money from my writing.

In DD, I found friends who genuinely wanted me to succeed. What do I mean by that? At DD, they often use the phrase: a rising tide lifts all boats. I think of it as karma: if I help others, I’ll receive the help I need… somehow.

From the start we were equals. Some members are incredibly successful authors or professionals in other fields, yet everyone was humble, willing to learn, and committed to sharing knowledge and supporting one another.

As I became more active in the community, I got to know the people behind the creative usernames. I discovered my ideal writing community: a diverse mix of ages, genders, ethnicities, and fascinating life experiences. Members live all over the world; many are neurodivergent, identify as LGBTQ, and represent a broad spectrum of political views (though mostly progressive).

Through life’s ups and downs, I’ve found a place where I can talk about anything. Off-topic discussions thrive, and I can turn to the community for support without fear of judgment. Having this writing community has made all the difference in my journey through life over the last decade.

HJ Perry is the author of the Sky High Scaffolders series, Gay Footballer Romance series, Warrior and many more