Coming from someone in the same position? Man, do I ever know how this feels.

What everyone else has already said pretty much sums up every bit of advice I've ever seen, so I only have one thing to add. Look into online roleplay, particularly on Dreamwidth. I know, I know, it's a cringeworthy idea. But you'd be surprised at some of the writers you'll find there, and a fuckton of them come with pre-assembled support groups for beginning writers, just add quirky but generally amiable personality (namely your own). It doesn't matter if it's a completely original setting, or something ripped straight out of a book, movie, etc; just make sure it's something you feel comfortable with. Lotta these guys will surprise you with how supportive they can be, and if you manage to get into a couple you'll find you soon have a cadre of people willing to rip your work apart for fun and profit.

There are, of course, horror stories about this too; as with anything, my opinion and five bucks will get you a small coffee at your java joint of choice.