The life of a writer is paved with rejection but if you wait long enough and work hard enough there will be success too. While I was away in France I experienced both. There was the good news and then there was the bad news. First came the good news: I’d been shortlisted in a big competition (more of this at a later date!) Then the bad news: an editor turned down my novel. But her reasons were good and her comments were encouraging so I’m not taking it to heart. Besides, since I’ve been back I’ve been busy with lots of things including a new short novel and the editing of my Millie and Bird collection of stories, which Iron Press are publishing next year. Keeping busy is a sure fire way of dealing with rejection – Here are my 3 top tips for dealing with rejection
1.Write the next thing, keep writing, keep writing, keep writing, keep…this is crucial, involving yourself in the next project keeps you from dwelling on the disappointment.
2.Try not to blame others and don’t fall into the envy trap it just makes you bitter and twisted
3.Love your life and celebrate your writing – buy cream cakes, drink wine with a friend, keep a special notebook where you write down 3 good things a day, everyday.
‘Don’t take rejection to heart. It’s NOT personal.’ I read this today on Nik Perring’s blog and I think it’s great advice – there’s lots here, so do take a look.
