When I started to put my work out, ya know, take my writing seriously, I thought I knew what was coming. In a sense I did. I was scared out of my mind and it super hurt when I would get feedback. Even though I knew not everyone would like it, secretly deep down, I thought maybe they would. I mean, it's my baby, everyone loves babies. After a while and through many tears, I woke up.
Writing is hard. We all know this. It requires dedication and the want to continue to learn and grow. We love to develop characters and stories we love. We continue to put our work out there to achieve this. Once we think we have it, most of the time we don't. A polished manuscript takes time and eyes that help us see what could make it stronger. Trust me, I get blinded by my love so it takes others to point out what may be the problem. The thing is you must learn to take criticism. Some of us already wear a tough skin, but with some of us it, takes time and many years of protective sunscreen to do it.
Our first critiques may have burned us to the core--to the point of tears. After you go through it many, many, many (I could add more 'manys' but you get the picture) times, you begin to see what is helpful and what is not. What is simply opinion and what is going to make your manuscript shine. You have to go through layers of building up this skin that will resist the painful stings of feedback. Don't get me wrong, some feedback is good, super healthy in fact, but the ones that may leave a burn take time to learn how to deal with.
So as you go on your journey keep in mind it takes time. Take in the feedback and rejection and use it as layers to protect you, and learn from it, don't get burned from it. Allow yourself to grow and understand what is best for you.
How are you dealing with your rejections?
Have a great day!!
