How Writers Can Choose Collaboration over Competition: Life Lessons from Legally Blonde

Collaboration, not competition, is the heart and soul of the writing life.

This morning I met a fellow Girl Trek member, or Trekker, as we call ourselves. I spotted her rocking her SuperHero Blue and we immediately connected over the blessing of the Girl Trek Black History Bootcamp Podcast and the sustaining force it’s been throughout the wreckage of this past year. While she was walking, I was perched in a sunny spot with my laptop and she loved the idea of working outside in this lovely weather. Turns out she’s also a writer and like so many writers, has been struggling to carve the time. We exchanged info and plan to meet soon to write and encourage each other.

I found something in this moment profoundly beautiful. Partly because it’s been a year since we’ve connected with strangers. Partly because, if not for that t-shirt, this woman and I would have never known the worlds and dreams we have in common. Partly because, it is as simple and true as “where two or more are gathered.” Our very knowledge of one another is a catalyst for our mutual growth.

The other night, I re-watched Legally Blonde. It’s a classic, and this time around, the moment that stuck out to me most was when the pretentious professor informs his students they are competing for a spot in his firm. That truth drives the plot. Elle, someone who prides herself on collaboration and sisterhood is thrown into a wholly unfamiliar world — one where…