Rejection is Just the Beginning of Your Journey
Dealing with rejection is an inevitable part of a writer's journey, and while it can be challenging, it's crucial to develop a healthy perspective and coping mechanisms. I’ve learned a few things over the years that might help you navigate and live with rejection as a writer:
The first is that you must understand that rejection is normal. It is 100% not a reflection of your worth as a writer. Even the most successful authors have faced rejection numerous times before finding the right opportunity. We’ve all heard their stories, probably because they are successful now, but learning to work within the negative construct of rejection is part of being an artist. Accepting rejection as a normal part of the writing process can help you detach personal value from the work.
Which leads us to the next piece of advice. Separate yourself from your work. This can be extremely difficult because as writers we often are writing about something that is important and we are often attached to the ideas, the story and the journey is often personal. Yet when it comes to accepting rejection as a writer, remember that a rejection is not a rejection of you as an individual but of a particular piece of writing. Develop a mindset that allows you to separate your identity from your work. This detachment can help you view rejection more objectively and use it as a constructive learning experience.
Once you do this, you can focus on moving forward and learning from the feedback you receive. If rejection comes with feedback, embrace it as a valuable resource. Analyze the comments and suggestions provided by editors, agents, or beta readers. Constructive criticism can offer insights that contribute to your growth as a writer. Use the feedback to refine your work and enhance your skills, rather than taking any feedback negatively. It is your work and you can take what you want and leave the rest behind. This gives you some control over what you can control. It allows you to focus on aspects of your writing that you can control, such as your dedication, effort, and continuous improvement, rather than dwelling on external factors like the preferences of publishers or agents. CChannel your energy into refining your craft and producing your best work.
All of this will help you build resilience or grit, which is a key component of overcoming rejection. Understand that setbacks are temporary, and each rejection brings you one step closer to success. Cultivate a mindset that sees rejection as an opportunity for growth rather than a roadblock.
Finally, seek out your people. By connecting with other writers on a regular basis you develop a support group. You can share your experiences with other writers who understand the ups and downs of the creative process. Join writing groups, attend workshops, or engage in online communities. Connecting with others can provide support, encouragement, and a sense of camaraderie.
Remember, rejection is not the end of your writing journey but a natural part of the path to success. Use it as an opportunity to learn, grow, and persevere in pursuit of your writing goals.
