Rejection stinks. We all know this. It's funny because last year after sending out numerous queries that were followed by rejections I thought I knew how to deal. I prepared myself with the thought that I would get rejected, but had a glimmer of hope for at least a partial request. None of it happened and after a beta suggested to keep my novel to one POV, I decided to stop. The novel needed more work, I had to face that. That's the thing. It takes signs to show us what we need to see. Rejection meant it wasn't ready. No matter how much I changed my query or my beginning, it simply wasn't ready. Did I cry? Yes. Did I get angry? You betcha. Did I tune out for a while? Uh huh.
In fact, I distanced myself from many things even those who support me, because I felt embarrassed and even a failure. The thing is--I wasn't. I'm a writer, and guess what, this comes with the territory. It doesn't matter how you cut it. You will get rejected, people will disagree with you, hey, they might not like your stuff or you, but you have move on and push through.
My method of dealing was probably ridiculous and down right dumb, but it's the way I had to deal, and now, I know better. I needed to find my focus and move forward and I did. Do I still want an agent? Darn tootin'. But I also want to be a better writer. A friend of mine, K.M. Walton, (who always has the best advice) reminds me--"You must do your time."She's right. You have to put your time in, do the best that you can, focus, and you will get there. She also says, "Don't let the goal overshadow where you are right now." Seriously, so true.
Dealing with all of it is hard, and yes, it's okay to have it out with your feelings (chocolate is a good friend of mine), you just have to figure out where and how to release the energy.
That's my pep talk. Now, put on your superwriter suit and get typing. :)
What are you dealing with lately?
Have a great day!!
