Dear Past Self,
Hey there! It’s me, you, but in the future. Crazy,
right? Anyway, this journey you’re about to embark on is crazy hard. Deep down,
I think you know that, but you have to face it and embrace it. There will be a
ton of rejection and heartache. Lots of tears and those demons that like to
make you feel like you’re not worth much. Yep, they’ll come. When you query,
they’ll double, well, triple in size.
Stay strong. I know it’s easy for me to say, but you
must. You need to take the support when others offer. It’s okay. It’s doesn’t
make you weak. You know the people I’m talking about. They’ll guide you and
help you in so many ways. So listen to them.
And don’t compare yourself to anyone. ANYONE.
Everyone’s path is different. It’s true.
I know you’ll try and ignore me, but it’s really true. All the feedback
you get will be left up to you to determine. That whole follow-your-gut thing.
Yep. It’s true. You need to keep writing everyday and taking the opportunities
that you know are good for you. Trust me.
When you query, let things slide off. Rejection only
makes you stronger. I know that’s something everyone tells you, but it’s true.
It still hurts, but you'll learn how to channel the hot pokers that strike your
heart. Always be aware that there are options in publishing so keep an open
mind. Success is only what you make it. And opinions are just that—opinions.
Throw them up and let them fly like petals on the wind. Make sure to keep the ones you cherish
close to your heart. You’ll know who means well.
The confidence you have now will fade in and out. It
may even get crushed. Don’t let it. Remain strong and believe in yourself. If
you don’t believe in yourself, it’ll show. Never EVER think you’re below
anyone. Your path is different from the others. That’s all. When you’re at the
point where it seems like everyone in the world is published or has an agent
but you, you’re still not below anyone. So please, don’t think that.
Patience is also key. Now I know you pretty much
have none so figure out how to deal with waiting months and months (possibly
never) from agents. It’s how this all works. There are no short cuts. Everything takes time so distract
yourself by writing something else. It’ll do you good. Think about it, the more
you write the stronger you become.
And the biggy--this is all subjective. Not everyone
is going to like your stuff. You don’t like every book you read so not everyone
will like yours. All you need to do is keep writing and enjoying the process of
creating magic. All those characters in your head need a life on paper;
otherwise, they’ll drive you nuts when they talk all at once. No sense in that.
You don’t want to look crazy.
So keep going. You’re on the right track. One day
things will happen and some people will love your stories. Just believe in
yourself and crush the doubting demons. They aren’t kind and only hold you
back. You are amazing and you will get there.
Love,
Your Future Self
Christine Danek
Blog: www.christinedanek.blogspot.com
Twitter @christinedanek
"I give permission for my entry to be included in the e-book compilation without royalties and/or separate compensation."
Christine Danek
Blog: www.christinedanek.blogspot.com
Twitter @christinedanek