Why go to a writer conference? (Or any conference for that matter.) Because there’s a huge upside beyond the incredible pool, breakfast buffet, and time away from responsibility of home.

I recently returned from the annual Florida Authors and Publishers Association Conference (FAPA) in Orlando, and thought I’d not only summarize my experience but possibly convince you to attend that event you’ve been sitting on the fence about. Sometimes we don’t do the things we want to do because that little voice in our head discourages us.

You shouldn’t spend money on yourself. You could use that time to do such and such. You aren’t a real writer.

Evil little voice, just hush.

Okay, to clarify, the conference I attended was for authors, publishers, and other related vendors—not technically a writer conference—but the topics presented were those that writers working toward publication need to know. And even though I’m discussing an author conference, I believe the same benefits result from most any type event.

What are these benefits? Continue Reading