How to Handle a Rejection Letter
I got a rejection letter in my e-mail today, and it reminded me of something. When submitting a story, poem, novel (or anything else) into publishers, don’t fear rejection. When you’re getting ready to submit your piece, remind yourself of one important fact: rejection is as much a part of publication as acceptance is. If you want to be a writer, expect to be rejected just as much, or more, then you’re accepted. Perseverance, in particular, is especially important.
Tips:
1. Don’t take it personally.
Your story might have been rejected for a number of reasons. Most editors receive more submissions then they can handle, and so they pick the submissions that will suit their magazine best. Even if your story is really well written, it may not get accepted if it doesn’t suit the publishers current needs. There are thousands of reasons why your manuscript may not have been chosen, but you’ll drive yourself crazy trying to figure them out. So, the best thing to do is take a deep breath, and send your work out to other publishers.
2. Most editors are writers.
Do your best to recognize that most editors are actually writers. This means that, most of the time, editors don’t enjoy sending rejection letters. Some writers assume that editors don’t understand how hard you worked on your manuscript. The fact is that most editors do understand. Part of being an editor is sending out rejections, even if the editor knows that the story is good. An editor’s job is to choose the manuscript that best suits their current needs.
3. Don’t fear hurtful rejections.
Some writers don’t submit their work to publishers for the fear of a hurtful rejection. Don’t worry about it. The majority of rejection letters are polite, and too the point. Most of them are even pre-written, due to time constraints. If the editor does happen to give you a hurtful rejection, the best thing to do is laugh about it and move on.
4. Feedback is a good thing.
Sometimes, an editor may include critique, or feedback on your story. This is a good thing. At first, it may seem like the editor is pointing out all the things that are wrong in your story. However, if they’re taking the time to critique your story, then they probably liked it. Take the editor’s advice seriously, he may have a point. Feedback is a good thing, it means your story has potential.
5. Rejection repeats itself.
Most writers will get rejected several times on the road to success. The reality that most, if not all writers face is a hefty pile of rejection letters. Persistence and dedication are a must for any writer, because if you give up when you’re halfway there, just because of one rejection, you aren’t going to make it anywhere. Don’t let any rejection get you down, just keep submitting. Someone, somewhere, will like your work.
6. Consider the guidelines.
Before you even submit your work to a publisher, read the guidelines, and read them thoroughly. The number one reason that editor’s reject a person’s work is because that person didn’t read the guidelines, and they had no idea what the publisher was looking for when they submitted their work. Don’t fall into this category. Read the guidelines, and tailor your manuscript to meet those guidelines.
If you’re interested in learning more, here are some related articles that might interest you:
5 Tips to Help You get Published
Getting Published: Where to Submit your Work
How to Stop Getting Rejected as a Freelance Writer
25 Things Writers Should Know About Rejection
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Personality Type #23: The Show-Off
Introduction:
The Show Off personality type is the character that always needs to be in the limelight, and prefers an audience at all times. He’s always trying to impress, though other people tend to get tired of his theatrics. He’s rather selfish, and immature. He has a hard time listening, especially to another’s problems. He has no problems expressing himself, though sometimes he can overdo it.
Character Quirks:
Immature
This character doesn’t often “act his age”. He has a hard time deeming which behaviors are appropriate for his age group, and can sometimes annoy his friends.
Sensitive
He doesn’t take criticism particularly well, and he fears disapproval.
Unreliable
The Show Off personality type isn’t a character that can be relied on. If someone asks this character for a favor, the Show Off will likely let him down.
Daring
This character will sometimes do things that other characters wouldn’t. However, he usually does these things to get attention.
Self-Centered
He doesn’t take the time to consider the thoughts and feelings of others. He puts himself first, and generally only minds his own needs and wants.
Seeks Approval
The Show Off personality type looks for reassurance. He likes to know that he’s doing the right thing, and that he’s on the right path… even if he isn’t.
Outgoing
The Show Off is a people person. He feels very comfortable speaking to others, and expressing himself. He likes to stand out from the crowd.
Outspoken
This character is very open with his thoughts and beliefs. He’ll say what he’s thinking regardless of what other characters might think.
Categories: Character Development Tags: a progressive writing guide, be in the limelight, character quirks, comfortable speaking, creative personality types, different personality types, myforgottenpen, myforgottenpen a progressive writing guide, people person, personality, personality traits, personality types, show off, show off character, show off character quirks, show off character traits, show off character type, show off personality, show off personality traits, show off personality type, stand out from, to get attention, types of personality, types of personality traits, what are the personality types, write, writer, Writing, writing guide, writing help, writing tips
Personality Type #20: The Problem Solver
Introduction:
The Problem Solving personality type gets everybody else out of tight situations. He tends to be very capable when it comes to helping other people. Evidence of his own efficiency can be seen as early as childhood. However, he can sometimes neglect himself. This person is very reliable, mature, and resourceful.
Character Quirks:
Resourceful
Finding clever ways out of difficult situations comes easy to him. This character can act effectively and imaginatively when he’s in a bind.
Mature
His mind is fairly well-developed. He’s often told that he’s smart, or mature for his age.
Disciplined
He’s very driven when it comes to his work and his goals. He often follows a strict schedule, and sets deadlines and rules for himself.
Emotionally Steady
The Problem Solving personality type doesn’t experience mood swings. Although he feels emotion, he doesn’t have any problems controlling his emotions. He usually feels content, or stable.
Dependable
This is a person one can rely on. He follows through on his word, and takes good care of those that are closest to him.
Internally Motivated
Most of his motivation stems from the internal thoughts and feelings, rather then external happenings.
Calm
The Problem Solving personality type usually acts composed. He’s not easily agitated.
Categories: Character Development Tags: character quirks, creative personality types, different personality types, difficult situations, goals, myforgottenpen, myforgottenpen a progressive writing guide, personality, personality traits, personality types, problem solver, problem solver personality type, problem solving, problem solving personality type, progressive writing guide, rely on, types of personality, types of personality traits, write, writer, Writing
