by Edie Melson @EdieMelson
It’s easy to get discouraged in the writing industry. It’s a
tough business, and as they say on Project runway, “One day you’re in, and one
day you’re out.”
So what’s a writer to do?
Here’s my list of things to remember when publishing doesn’t
go your way:
1. We always have a choice, we can get stronger through
adversity or defeated by it. This is true in life, and also in publishing.
2. Failure is an option, but it’s not as bad as you think. Some
of my most valuable lessons have come through repeated failure. The key is to
not let failure stop you.
3. Publishing is subjective business. What one editor loves,
another hates. Don’t let one or two opinions stop you in your tracks.
4. It’s important to cultivate a positive attitude. Having a
positive outlook doesn’t mean you ignore the negative, you just don’t let it
defeat you.
5. The best opportunities are often disguised as problems.
6. Success has nothing to do with perfection. It’s important to
strive to be the best we can be. But perfection is out of reach. Don’t let a
lack of it hold you back.
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| Every writer needs a tribe. |
7. Every writer needs a tribe. We need others traveling a
similar path to encourage us and hold us accountable.
8. Every writer’s journey is different. Although we need
companions, we have to remember our path is unique. Comparing your
opportunities and milestones are not a productive use of your time.
9. Courage isn’t the absence of fear. We all are afraid of
things—failure, the blank page, not living up to expectations. But the
cogurageous writer continues on in spite of fear.
10. Publishing is five percent talent and ninety-five percent
perseverance. The tide will turn. It may seem like your turn with success with
never come, but that’s only true if you quit.
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| The harder the climb, the better the view |
11. The harder the climb, the better view. When we work for
something, we value it more.
12. Publishing is a process, not a destination. We look at
others ahead of us and feel like they’ve arrived. Truthfully, no one has ever
arrived.
13. It takes as long as it takes. There are so many things that
go into the publishing equation. The key is to not rush the process.
14. In this business, a lot of success does come from who you
know. Networking is vital. Learn the lesson early and you’ll find the path
easier.
15. You are stronger than you think. So often we underestimate
ourselves. Stop and look back at what you’ve already accomplished and give
yourself a pat on the back.
16. Every writer struggles with insecurity. It doesn’t matter if
we’ve never published a book or published fifty. The blank page remains an
enemy to be vanquished.
17. Nothing lasts forever, not even the writing slumps.
18. Flexibility is key. We can make plans, but just because
things don’t turn out the way we hope is no excuse to give up.
19. Finally, remember
these words, A man’s heart plans
his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9
These
are the things I try to remember when publishing gets tough. What would you add
to the list? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Edie Melson is the author of numerous books, as well as a freelance writer and editor. Her blog, The Write Conversation, reaches thousands each month. She’s the co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains ChristianWriters Conference and the Social Media Mentor at My Book Therapy. She’s also the Military Family Blogger at Guideposts. Com, Social Media Director for SouthernWriters Magazine and the Senior Editor for NovelRocket.com. Connect with her on Twitter and Facebook. Don't miss her new book from Worthy Inspired, WHILE MY SOLDIER SERVES.
Great encouragement. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThank you for these encouraging words. The writing path has been tough for me for a long time. I try to remember it is all in God's timing. Love novel rocket and the encouragement I receive here. Don't ever under estimate the power of an encouraging word.
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