I post on the first Wednesday of every month as a member of the Insecure Writers’ Support Group. The group was set up by Alex J. Cavanaugh to bring together writers to offer each other support. Pop along to the website to find out more.
This week has been a tough one. I’ve had two rejections in two days, which is not a pleasant experience. As writers we get used to knock backs, but that doesn’t mean we ever get used to that sinking feeling in your stomach when something hasn’t worked, yet again.
For me, this feels like yet another thing that points to my writing being not good enough.
So, I could give up and do one of the other activities I wish I did more of – running, learning Spanish, or dressmaking. But none of these makes me one bit as happy as writing does.
That’s why I won’t be giving up. I love writing too much to just fall at the next hurdle. In the coming weeks I’ll be thinking about what my next steps are. Do I just keep blindly writing, never sure if I’m doing it right? Or do I pull myself together and get some professional critique so I can find out what’s wrong with my writing and how to make it better?
I’m not too sure of the answer yet – there are a lot of considerations for both suggestions – but I certainly won’t be resting on my laurels. I’m just not that kind of person.
Reading is so subjective that some people may like your work, others may not. My plan, therefore is to, as Mel Sherratt would say, ‘Keep on keeping on’ – you never know when it’s going to be your turn!
L.M. Milford 
I had one of those weeks recently too. But, as you say, we have to keep on going. Best wishes and good luck….
You are correct that reading is subjective. Knowing your audience also helps to understand when a bad review or critique is off the mark. It never hurts to keep learning about your craft but theory needs to be put into practice. In my opinion, writing is still the best way to learn how to write. Wonderful to hear that you love writing and will never give up.
My heart goes out to you, LM. I have had weeks like this and they are never easy. Don’t give up. You haven’t found your audience yet.
You mentioned getting some professional critiques. Have you run your manuscripts by a critique circle of other writers? Were they helpful? I am a member of several critique groups and find they see the flaws that I am too close to the manuscript to see. They can also be very supportive when I am feeling discouraged.
Sorry about your rejections. That’s right–keep on keeping on. It will get better.
I love your post. Writing is a lot of rejection, but we keep going. I’m glad you aren’t wallowing in it and are determined to do the thing you love.
Leanne Ross ( readfaced.wordpress.com & @LeanneRossRF )
Great attitude and post! It’s so true that we never get used to rejection but it is all about what we do with it & how we move forward. I am just like you….not sure about my writing or how good it is but it keeps calling me. I am co-hosting for IWSG this month and that’s how I found you. Looking forward to following and reading more of your posts.
Don’t pay for critters just ask your followers who’d be interested. That is how l found my beta readers. 🙂
Anna from Shout with Emaginette
Thanks to everyone for their comments. I’m so glad I posted about this because the reaction from people has been so helpful. So many great ideas and support. I can never get over how amazing the online writing community is.
So great to hear from you all 🙂