How do we successfully obtain our ultimate writing goal no matter if the aim is securing a great representing agent/publisher, the just right critique partner/group or publishing venue (online, regional or national pub, literary journal)? By shopping carefully, of course.

Let's say our Writing Wish (WW) is that illusive, perfect fitting pair of jeans. You know, the go-to jeans we can't do without; the ones we'd grab if our house caught fire. How do we shop for those jeans?

We shop, and we shop hard. Even if it takes many long days and visits to tons of stores. Since we wouldn't go to the closest, most convenient store and just grab the first pair we see, the same goes for shopping for our WW. Shop lots. Compare. Don't be in a hurry. There's less chance of making a bad "purchase" if we leisurely (and thoroughly) see what's available out there.

Never buy jeans just because they look great on the rack or someone else. The denim that fits our friend, a fellow blogger, someone on TV or the streets is NOT going to fit our body the same way because we're all made differently. We've got to get in that cramped little dressing room and try on every pair we think might be "the" ones, then face the 360 degree mirror. That's right...research for OURSELVES vs. listening to others' advice exclusively. While other writers can surely point us in the right direction as to a winning agent/pub, short story or poem venue, or crit group, we can't go by their advice alone.

Don't just go with what's popular at the moment.

Most of the time, we have better luck with tried-and-true brands tailored to our own personal style and those brands/types that have stood the test of time. (This applies to what we write as well as how to get our WW!) Be true to your personal style and taste. So what if everyone's wearing those horrid skinny-legged jeans? The perfect fitting pair for us might put us in the minority (at the moment), but we'll be happier and more comfortable with our own tastes in the end.

Think "off the rack" for places you might find that perfect pair of jeans — online, specialty boutiques (indie and small publishers, smaller journals), going to market (conferences), festivals or events (social networking venues). And don't forget the awesomeness that is hand-me-downs! If a friend has already "broken in" that pair of denims, maybe they'd be a good fit for us, too. A personal recommendation or introduction can sometimes work magic.

Always read the labels (fine print) to make sure you know what you're getting. This also applies to carefully reading submission guidelines!

Finally, as all good shoppers know, consider the cost. Are the blue jeans you're "buying" within your budget? Have you considered the personal sacrifice demanded in order to walk out with those perfect jeans in hand? If we're not prepared to pay the price (time investment, deadlines, restrictions, etc.), then better to hold off until the budget can accommodate us without stress.

So...what's your perfect kind of jeans or Writing Wish? Mine fits me perfectly without binding or bunching and have just a bit of sparkle, but are still in the "regular ol' Wranglers" cut. They represent the perfect agent and/or publisher who loves my writing and style.

Angie Ledbetter is Co Editor/Publisher of Rose & Thorn Journal. You can visit her in the blogosphere or in Twitterville.