Writers are constantly learning and improving on our craft and business skills. Continued growth as a human being and writer is vital if we want to advance our careers. This means we have to take an active roll in our future and step toward opportunities to learn and experience.

There are many ways to approach continued learning. What works for you may not work for others.

Groups and Forums
You’ll often be able to find information about local writer’s groups at your nearby library, family center, college or school. There are also some wonderful groups available online. Finding a group that suits your needs and personal interests can be challenging but all groups offer an opportunity to learn and grow.

There are also a number of writing forums available online. These bring together a collection of writers of various experiences who share their expertise and advice. One of my favorites is the Absolute Write Water cooler. Do you know of others?

Classes, Courses and Workshops
Every year there are a multitude of classes, courses and workshops scheduled to educate writers. Some writers may choose to attend a college, take a night course, or go online to follow a detailed curriculum.

Coaches, Mentors and Friends
For a more one-on-one approach to your continued learning you might prefer to find a writing coach or mentor. Design Your Writing Life and Working Writers Coach both offer online coaching that focuses on you and what you need to advance your career.

We can also learn a great deal from friends and colleagues. Maintain relationships and converse with others. Invite fellow writers out for coffee or talk to your loved ones about your goals and dreams. We learn a great deal by sharing perspectives with others.

Articles, Blogs and Books
Another approach to learning is to read, voraciously. Absorb words around you. Read books on style, technique and structure. Read memoirs of other writers. Read blogs about writing and the lives of writers. Read articles on querying, plotting, freelancing, fiction, etc. Read simply for the joy of reading. Read fiction and non-fiction. Read with an eye for detail and skill. Read.

Writing and Exercises
Finally, despite all of the above opportunities to learn we will not grow as writers without putting everything we come to understand into practice. We will not advance without writing. The core of a writer is the words they put on the page. Write articles, stories, novels, outlines, shopping lists, dialogue, description, action, fiction and non-fiction. Use writing exercises to stretch your skills. Write, every day.

What did you do in 2007 to aid your education and experience? What plans can you make now to advance your education in 2008? What would you like to learn more about in the coming year?