Words of encouragement for those in the midst of
rejection.
Rejection is blood pumping through the publishing
industry’s heart—agents reject authors, publishers reject manuscripts, and stores
reject books. Although this is frustrating for writers desiring publication, rejection
helps to weed out the “dandelions” from the “roses.” In other words, NO ensures that the best books reach shelves.
Does this mean rejection brands a book as a “dandelion”?
Of course not!
Remember, the publishing industry is based solely on
preferences, opinions, and past successes. One agent’s “dandelion” is another’s
“rose.”
And let’s be honest; everyone loves to pick a “dandelion”
once in a while.
I am currently in the querying process for my latest
book. I’ve sent out close to sixty queries and even though I know the facts, it
isn’t easy to check my email and see a rejection letter.
Many of you are in a similar situation. You’re aching for
someone to recognize your potential and fall in love with your work. You dream
of the day when you’ll check your email and find a YES.
But until that day comes, remember these four things:
1.
It’s
not personal.
Agents/Publishers receive hundreds of
queries/proposals per week. They have preferences and are looking for ways to
cut their slush skyscraper into a manageable pile.
2.
Each
NO brings you closer to YES.
Crossing an agent or publisher off
your list only means you’re approaching a breakthrough.
You can’t find an open “door” until
you start knocking.
3.
Remember
your dream, your passion, and why your book deserves to be read.
It’s easy to become discouraged during
the querying process and think of your work as a soulless product to be sold.
Fight the urge. Remind yourself why you’re querying, why you decided to write
your book, and why it deserves to be read.
4.
When
the “doors” close, kick one down.
After you’ve extinguished all
options, shift your perspective and find new, unconsidered options. Be your own
YES. Make your dreams happen.
In publishing, this option is known
as self-publishing.
“If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. It’s the hard that makes it great.”
