New Writer Questions: How do I Handle Rejection?
Question six in a series of six questions.
Don Martin, Real-Life Writer, is an email newsletter & blog exploring down-to-earth writing. Most installments are free, some for paid subscribers only.
Earlier in my life I used to feel rejected at a lot of stuff. Turned down for a date. my English teacher told me I would never amount to much. My dad thought I was just trying to be a big shot. My mom kept forgetting to pick me up after school. People unsubscribed from my newsletter. Publishers called my submissions trash. You know…
Well, then how do I and other new writers handle rejection? It is a common experience for writers, especially when submitting work for publication. New writers may have questions about coping with rejection, staying motivated, and persevering in the face of setbacks. How do new writers handle rejection and dignity-bashing?
Handling rejection is quite a common and inevitable part of any writing journey, but especially for new writers. While rejection can be disheartening, it’s important to know that it’s a natural part of the process and doesn’t necessarily reflect the quality of your writing. Here are a handful of tips for vulnerable new writers on how to handle rejection.
It’s normal.
Understand that rejection is a normal part of the writing process and doesn’t define your worth as a writer. Build your resilience by accepting rejection as a learning experience and an opportunity for growth.
Don’t take rejection personally or let it affect your self-esteem. Remember that literary tastes are subjective, and what one editor or publisher may reject, another may also reject. Keep working on improving your craft.
If you receive feedback along with a rejection, take it as an opportunity to learn and improve your writing. Consider the feedback carefully and use it constructively to identify areas for growth and development.
Produce more writing.
Keep writing. Use rejection as motivation to hone your skills, try new ideas, and produce more writing. The more you write, the better you’ll become, and the more opportunities you’ll have for possible success.
Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow writers, friends, or mentors who understand the challenges of the writing journey. Share your experiences, seek encouragement, and don’t expect much from the smart-alecks on Twitter.
Celebrate any of your successes, no matter how tiny. Whether it’s finishing a draft, receiving positive feedback from a reader, or getting a rejection letter that offers personalized feedback, acknowledge and celebrate your progress along your journey.
Persist
Persistence is always the key to success in writing. Keep submitting your work, exploring new opportunities, and pursuing your writing goals with determination and perseverance. Remember that every rejection brings you one step closer to an acceptance.
Take breaks. It’s okay to stop submitting or writing if you need time to recharge and reboot. Use that time to focus on self-care, recharge your creative energy, and come back to your writing with enthusiasm.
Writing often takes time, patience, and perseverance. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your writing career, and focus on making steady progress rather than seeking instant gratification or recognition.
Stay positive. Maintain that mindset and believe in yourself and your abilities as a writer. Stay optimistic, and open to new opportunities, knowing that every rejection brings you one step closer to achieving your goals.
Last thoughts.
By adopting a positive outlook, seeking support, and staying persistent in your writing efforts, you can learn to handle rejection effectively and continue to grow and thrive as a writer. Remember that rejection is not the end of the road but rather a stepping stone on your journey to success.
New Writer Questions: How Do I Even Start Writing?
Question one of a series of six questions.
New Writer Questions: What Should I Write About?
Question two in a series of six questions
New Writer Questions: How Can We Become Better At Writing?
Question three in a series of six questions
New Writer Questions: How Do I Get Published?
Question four in a series of six questions
New Writer Questions: How Do I Build An Audience?
Question five in a series of six questions
Thanks for reading!
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Thanks for reading!
If you enjoyed this, join 17,760 other fans and followers everywhere. I’d like to lavish you with gifts, rewards, and my weekly real-life writing newsletter. Click to sign up, and come on in. The keys are above the door. Have a cookie.