I just returned from the Romance Writers of America (RWA) National Conference in Niagara Falls, Canada, and I’m still energized—from the mist rising off Horseshoe Falls and from the conference theme: Falling for Romance.

People often ask why I choose to take on the expense of conference fees, flights, and hotel stays to attend events like this. The truth? I go for me—for my career, for my stories, and for my future in this ever-evolving romance industry.

Writing is a solitary act. Most days, it’s just me and the page. No coworkers dropping by with coffee, no boardroom buzz, no high-fives after a breakthrough chapter. As much as I love this creative life, it can feel like I’m paddling upstream alone—sometimes against whitecap rapids.

That’s why I show up.

I want to be surrounded by writers—no matter what they write—who face the same struggles. Our conversations lighten the load and remind me I’m not alone in this writing journey.

Yes, Zoom has its place—and I’m grateful for the access it offers—but there’s something irreplaceable about in-person events: spontaneous hallway and elevator chats, the buzz of a packed session room, shared meals, laughter, and quiet moments that reconnect you to your story.

I attend RWA’s National Conference not only to support the only association dedicated solely to romance writers, but also because I want to stay on top of industry trends—many of which unfold over just four days. Reader, I want to learn from professionals: publishers, editors, agents, marketers, and fellow authors who generously share their insight and experience. They’re giving away their secrets, and I respect the gift.

And I want to connect with writers who understand the highs and lows of this unpredictable path—to remind myself, and them, that we’re not alone when we share it together.

Let’s be honest—marketing might be the #1 goal, but networking is vital, even if, like me, you sometimes feel like a stranger in the crowd. Walking among big-name authors can be intimidating—because let’s face it, while they’re present, they don’t exactly invite you to their table.

So, I look for real connections—the kind that inspire me to keep writing, that push me to level up, and that help me believe in what’s possible.

This work is tough. Creating a book is work. But if we don’t invest in ourselves—if we don’t show up at the desk or at events—how can we expect readers to show up for us?

In the words of Britney Spears: “You want a hot body? You want a Bugatti? You want a Maserati? You better work, bitch.” And similarly, if you want the book deal, the readership, the movie rights—or simply the satisfaction of a finished manuscript—you better work, writer. Dreams without action don’t turn a profit. Goals take grit, consistency, and the decision to keep showing up—even when it’s hard.

Here’s my encouragement to you, whether you’re a writer or a dreamer:
Show up. Learn. Connect. Keep paddling.

The rewards? They’re waiting—on the other side of the words.

And yes, as I write this, I’m listening to Britney Spears’ “Work Bitch.” 

Until next time,
Shelley