Writing Groups

Start with a pilot group of 5 to 7 committed participants.

• Begin with a friend or two and add others gradually OR
• Build on an existing writing group OR
• Hold open conversations on aging and identify people interested in writing together OR
• Use a study group based on New Pathways for Aging.

Agree on how you’re going to work together.

• Perhaps begin with a four to six week commitment.
• Goals for writing.
• Agreements about confidentiality—inside and outside the group.
• Select a volunteer to notify others of meeting times and places.
• Discuss how to give and receive helpful feedback.

Consider using others’ writing to stimulate thinking

• For example, read excerpts from New Pathways for Aging in the book or on the web.
• Consider other models.

Agree on how to share your writing between meetings

• Make and circulate paper copies before meetings.
• Use electronic methods such as email or Google Groups.

Expect predicable stages of group development.

• Forming, norming, storming, performing.

Consider publication after you’ve worked together for a year or so.

• Informally among friends.
• More formally.

Consider spreading your model by inviting others to read and discuss what you’ve done.

Comments? Join the conversation.