Member Spotlight :: hope*writer Becky Beresford

To learn more about Becky’s writing, you can visit her website or find her on Instagram and Twitter. 

At hope*writers, we love to celebrate our members and their writing progress. Each month, we highlight a member whose work caught our attention, and this month, we’re celebrating nonfiction writer Becky Beresford.

We asked Becky to tell us about her writing journey as a hope*writer. Here’s Becky’s story in her own words.

When did you first realize you were a writer?

I have always been a journaler, but I never thought I would be an actual writer — sharing my words on display for others to see. But after I became a mama, something inside of me shifted. I had spent the previous seven years of my life doing women's ministry in different forms, and my heart was still very passionate about women. But I just couldn't meet in person much anymore. That's when God laid the idea on my heart to try writing to them instead . . . As it turns out, I truly love writing. It's still my outlet for ministry and makes my heart come alive.

What is the value of having a community of writers to come alongside you?

I can’t tell you how many times I would have given up if it were not for the community in this group. Writing is not for the faint of heart. It takes perseverance, courage, and a strength you never knew you had. Whenever I face some form of rejection in my writing journey, having my writing tribe speak truth and love into my soul helps me remember why I am doing this and who I am doing this for. 

What specific progress have you made since becoming a hope*writer? 

When I first joined, I had just written the first draft of my book proposal, met with a couple acquisitions editors, and realized I needed an email list! I jumped headfirst into trying to get a book published without building up a group of people who believed in me and whom I could serve. 

I also started hosting the Brave Women Series, which features a different woman each week. I only had a few months planned out and didn't know where I would find other writers who might want to contribute. 

But after joining hope*writers, I saw this was a gold mine of talented, passionate creatives, with stories that were changing the world. I started asking people in this community to contribute, and two years later, this series is going stronger than ever thanks to the many women from hope*writers who have been brave enough to share their journeys.

I have really enjoyed collaborating with fellow writers as well in guest writing opportunities, podcast interviews, summits and speaking engagements, book launches, social media boost groups, platform building, etc. I've also learned different ways to make money as a writer, which helps me feel validated in my work. So often, we don't see the fruit in our writing as we send our words out into cyberspace. But having someone pay for your writing helps bring it tangible value even when we know our words are important no matter what. 

Now, I am in the middle of writing my second book proposal for a completely different book than the one I pitched before becoming a hope*writer. Only this time, my focus is clearer, my platform is larger, and my email list has grown exponentially, mainly through learning about lead magnets in this group and guest speaking/writing.

Why is hope*writers the right community for you?

I'm a relational girl, so being able to connect with different writers from all over the globe, and in my own area, has helped me remember I am not alone. When you feel like you are isolated . . . it makes it so much harder to put one foot in front of the other and take the next step. But hope*writers offers community and encouragement at the tips of your fingers. I have seen this group come alongside countless others with advice, guidance, and love. I have made lifelong friends in this group who celebrate with me, and I celebrate with them. It's a gift that is truly priceless.

How has hope*writers helped you make progress in your writing? 

No doubt, it's been the hope*circles. These are my people within my people. You can feel lost in a large community, but having a tight-knit group of writers you can talk to, vent to, offer support and advice to, as well as cheer one another on, it makes all the difference in this writing life. Connection often makes it or breaks it.

Are you interested in finding a writing community that helps you call yourself a writer and make consistent progress like Becky? Click here to learn more about how to join hope*writers!