In last night’s writing class, I talked to students about submitting shorter pieces while still working on their book-length projects. Some seemed uncomfortable with the idea. Fear of failure, fear of the unknown and fear of commitment washed across these dedicated students’ faces. I challenged them to research a list of 3 possible (and plausible) markets where they might submit. A legitimate byline for a shorter work will look very good on your resume when you pitch your book-length writing.
The first few times you send away your stuff to a prospective editor, you may be tempted to camp out next to the email or postal mailbox. A distinct mix of anticipation and dread may come over you. Anticipation because of the chance you might hit the market, dread because you also know most new writers go through a phase of rejection as they learn the craft. Make the most of your writing by not expecting a “yes” for a while, yet not losing hope when you get the rejection.

Writing Tip for Today: This most easily accomplished by writing something new or revising another in-progress piece. When the rejection comes, tick that publication off your list, tweak the story if necessary to get a different slant that fits the next one on your list and get that baby back out there.