The Mindset Shift

Many rejection letters are generic and provide no constructive feedback. However, as you persist with your queries, you might begin to encounter more personalized responses. These can offer encouraging insights about your work, reminding you that a rejection doesn't necessarily reflect the quality of your writing.

When you receive a rejection that includes a positive comment about your manuscript, don't dismiss it. Instead, cherish it. Document it.

I maintain a "positivity journal" where I compile affirming remarks from others regarding my work. This collection includes feedback from critique partners as well as industry professionals—agents and editors alike. Interestingly, most of these encouraging notes originated from rejections.

A Simple Reminder

Despite your best efforts to detach personally from rejection, the emotional impact can be profound. When faced with a barrage of "no" responses, it's easy to forget the positive aspects of your writing. The temptation to give up can loom large when you encounter repeated rejections.

This is where my positivity journal became invaluable. It serves as a dedicated space to revisit uplifting comments during moments of self-doubt, reminding me of the praise my work has received.

When we're in a critical mindset, it’s challenging to recall the compliments we've previously received. After a rejection, our thoughts often fixate on the words "no" or "not for me," overshadowing any positive feedback. By documenting these encouraging remarks in one place, you can effectively counteract the negativity and remind yourself that your work holds value.

A few uplifting quotes

Here are snippets from some of the affirmations I've included in my journal:

• "This project sounds amazing!"
• "I can't recall the last time I devoured a book like this. Thank you for sharing!"
• "There's so much to recommend here. I eagerly await finding your book in stores!"
• "We were captivated by your premise and found your plotting to be exceptional."
• "This one has the potential to become something truly special."

These are just a handful of the kind words that can brighten your day. Whenever I feel disheartened—as many writers do—this journal acts as a beacon of hope. It can quickly lift my spirits, akin to a friend reassuring me, "See? Your work is worthwhile. Keep your chin up."

There are various ways to keep these affirmations, whether it’s through a notebook, a jar filled with notes, or a corkboard displaying them prominently near your workspace. The key is to keep these words together and easily accessible.

So, the next time you find yourself feeling low about your writing, remember this: Your work is valuable. Stay resilient. Keep pushing forward.

Thank you for taking the time to read this! If you're a fellow creative writer, consider subscribing to my newsletter, The Relatable Writer, for down-to-earth insights into the writing and publishing journey.