Making it my mission to encourage other writers!

Anyone who knows me well, knows that I love to write. I have attended many literary events over the years and do many online courses with the most incredible tutors. I have enjoyed learning from writers such as Emily Bitto, Kate Forsyth, Inga Simpson, Sarah Sentilles, Ashley Kalagian Blunt, David Whyte and Felicity Plunkett. My editor is the award winning Karen Comer. I have met many of these teachers  thanks to creativity coach and facilitator Kinchem Hegedus, author of the brilliant book, Inner Landscaping. 

I have met many writers along the way and I am a part of a beautiful group of women. We call ourselves the 'Wild Writers.'  We share our precious projects during their delicate first draft stage and offer feedback with the respect each writer needs at this vulnerable stage. Seeing a book grow from an early idea to publication is the most privileged way to read. When a writer begins to believe in themselves, their creativity is free to land and everyone benefits. 

More recently I was accepting into the amazing four month poetry course, "From Poem to Manuscript," with the incredible Felicity Plunkett. I am now building a collection of rural based poems, deepening my awareness of the landscape even more. Thanks to this course I am also a part of a poetry group who meet online monthly. Joy, joy, joy!!!

It is funny this thing called writing. For me, my journals are a way to recall poignant moments, note new ideas, record quotes, process personal challenges and generally play with words. I can remember, even before starting school playing 'teachers 'with my cousin as she offered spelling tests for me. From this to now finally hosting a writers retreat, here on the farm, is a dream come true. My heart is full even in my slight state of exhaustion, this being the day after the guests have travelled home. 

Now that my first book is complete (a book about the Power of the Breath) I move into trying to attract a publisher. This stage is very different from the isolated, private, simple and quiet life I have grown accustomed to. I have attended a number of online courses with the Australian Society of Authors ASA, such as the fabulous Pitch Perfect course and this is teaching me how to get back out there and connect with my reader. Part of me is very hesitant to 'self promote' and another part of me is ready to share what happens when I turned up at the desk over and over again, putting all of this learning into action. 

All of these courses and connections happened over a six year period. It has been a time of learning, creative play and connection. It feels like I have aligned with the part of me that knew, even as a child, I would be a writer one day. 

If you yearn to write or have an idea that keeps swirling around in the background, please email me at narellehunteronline@gmail.com or keep an eye here on my blog, a place that will encourage you and build your confidence. These callings we have are essential for our well-being. 

Self expression helps the flow of our overall energy. A healthy habit that boosts our vitality. Writers can lose confidence way back in our school years (ironically.) I am making it my mission to encourage as many writers as I can connect with, to get started. So go out and buy yourself a gorgeous new notebook and pen and stat making notes - We will all benefit when your creativity starts to fly!!!