Keeping Your Head Up

Some writers joke about their rejection slips–one blogger recently held a contest for rejection letters set to rock song tunes. But whether you take your “noes” in stride or hide under the covers, underneath that facade, rejection hurts. Stings. Makes you want to break your diet or go shopping. At least while you’re in the waiting room you can pretend they’re saying “yes.” What’s the pro writer to do when the answer is no?
Writing Tip for Today:

  • Keep your head up and eyes on the prize, to mangle a couple of cliches. Believe that for every no you receive, you’re getting one answer closer to that yes.
  • Allow yourself 24 hours to mourn, pout, self-flagellate or throw darts at the rejectioner’s image. Then get back on the horse.
  • Keep working on your skills. Take a class, attend a conference or workshop, join a critique group.
  • Learn more by writing more. Remember the Gladwell principle of 10,000 hours of practice.
  • Don’t withdraw. Get yourself out there. Submit your stuff. Work on your contacts and audience database.
  • Find a writing buddy who can prop you up when you’re down, and vice versa.
  • Keep writing.

About Linda S. Clare

I'm an author, speaker, writing coach and mentor. I teach both fiction and nonfiction writing at Lane Community College and in the doctoral program as expert writing advisor for George Fox University. I love helping writers improve their craft and I'm both an avid reader and writer of stories about those with wounded hearts.

2 comments on “Keeping Your Head Up

  1. Well, this is too fun reading your blog! Chip is one of my absolute favorite blogs to read too. His humor cracks me up.
    Way cool about your book too….I’ll have to throw it on my Amazon list if the library doesn’t have it.
    Theresa

  2. I’ll head over to your blog, too. If Nashville PL doesn’t have my book, I’m going to find out why-Abingdon is part of United Methodist and it’s in Nashville! Thanks for visiting.
    Linda

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