Join a Writing Group

http://www.nfsps.org/
Joining a group in your area can boost your knowledge of your craft. Some areas do not have groups, so consider starting one. If you are looking there is a good chance that others in your location are looking also.
There are different types of groups and the personalities of the members decides how they work. If you find a good group they will not only sit and nod at your reading, but will give good critiquing. There is a huge difference in good and bad critiquing. Bad critiquing will just knock down the writer. Good critiquing will make you see what you need to do to improve your work.
Critiques are not meant to rewrite a person's work. To change the voice of the writer is to destroy the writing. Critiquing is the process of helping the writer see a better way to write what they've written. The opposite side of critiquing is that you have to be willing to listen to the advice, and act upon it.
With snow expected tonight I know I will be spending the weekend writing. With any luck I will have some jewels drop off the page. I belong to three groups, two local poetry groups, and a writer's group that focuses on novel and article writing.
The National Federation of State Poetry Societies, Inc. is a good place to start. The above link will show you where groups are in your area. They have contests with prizes, but best of all they have smart competent writers that you can learn from. With a well respected group, you can move yourself forward with your writing. Keep in mind, you have to want to.