Wendy Baldwin
Linguaverse Linguistic Solutions

Writing Retreats

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I run structured writing retreats for academics and other writers who want or need an extended period of time to write and hone their craft within a supportive, writer-centered environment that minimizes distractions and privileges writing and healthy writing habits. To get an idea of what can come out of a retreat, see this collection of Snapshots.

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Retreats can be in person or run via Zoom. A typical retreat runs for 2.5 days, but shorter or longer models are available.

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WHY RETREAT?

• Time and space to set, and work intentionally and purposefully toward, realistic goals

• Ample protected writing time interspersed with wellness breaks so you remain energized

• Space shared with engaged writers, keeping you motivated and on task

• Room to discuss writing challenges, assess outcomes and celebrate achievements

• Opportunity to learn about yourself as a writer and test new writing process strategies

• Opportunity for incidental learning and to draw on the collective wisdom of the community

• Your attention is wholly on your writing because you've intentionally put all other professional tasks and responsibilities on hold for the duration of the retreat

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WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM A WRITING RETREAT?

Writers and wordsmiths of all stripes and any language background:

• Academics/researchers at any career stage

• PhD students

• Non-fiction and fiction authors

• Translators and editors

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HOW DO RETREATS WORK?

My retreats are based on the structured writing retreat model developed by Rowena Murray. The ample, focused writing time is supported by movement and meal breaks and opportunities for you to discuss your writing with the community of writers.

 

My job as facilitator is to create and hold this supportive, writer-centric environment for you so your only job is to fully engage with your writing project and move it forward.

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You'll leave the retreat not only having made solid and satisfying progress on your writing project but also knowing more about what makes you tick as a writer and practical strategies for usefully managing the process and craft of writing.

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WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?

Research shows that structured social writing environments:

• provide dedicated time and space for writing by intentionally and purposefully disengaging from other tasks

• create accountability among participants by sharing and assessing specific goals

• are a safe space to discuss writing challenges and increase the wellbeing of academics and PhD researchers by creating a sense of connectedness

 

See Murray and Newton 2009; Stevenson 2020.

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HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A RETREAT?

Prior to each retreat, I send registered participants key retreat details and tips for making sure you get the most out of your in-person or virtual retreat time.

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WHAT IF I CAN'T GET AWAY, I WANT FEEDBACK ON MY WRITING OR I NEED LONGER-TERM SUPPORT?

Not everyone can get away for a retreat, and others may want feedback on a work in progress or need more sustained support. Get in touch and we'll talk about your needs and other ways that I can help you get your writing done and out the door.

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