Yikes.

No one likes rejection. Well, maybe some masochists do, but the majority of people like to feel recognized and accomplished for their hard work, not totally dejected.

That being said, it is, unfortunately, a sad truth when it comes to publishing. There’s gonna be a lot of rejection. From agents, to publishers–they all have an idea of what will be a great novel, and your writing might not fit the bill.

If you’re struggling (as I struggle–as every author struggles) let me tell you my method, and then give you a few facts that may, or may not, brighten your mood.

First off, when I get down about rejections, I usually seek out company. My friends and family always have kind things to say, and my beta readers always encourage me further with ridiculous praise that is far beyond my capabilities (but I still appreciate nonetheless).

Knowing they’re there for me really makes a difference. I want to do right by them, prove their compliments right, and it motivates me to get back on the horse and try again!

Everyone has their own method for getting back in the game, so don’t worry if yours it to scream into a pillow. The only thing I recommend is to not wallow. It eats your precious time–time you should use writing.

Okay, now that we got that out of the way, let’s talk some facts.

JK Rowling got loads of rejections before Harry Potter became a success. And it’s the fifth best selling novel of all time.

If you ever think you’ve made a mistake, remember that there’s an agent/editor out there that rejected Harry Potter. I’m pretty sure, whatever mistake you’ve made, it doesn’t top that.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail was self-published by Beatrix Potter, and Stephen King was rejected over thirty times (while he was near broke) before his novel, Carrie, managed to sell.

Don’t all those other sad sack stories make you feel better? Sometimes it has nothing to do with you or your prowess as a writer–it sometimes has to do with the agent, or the editor, the line-up for publishing house, or sometimes people are upset when reading your work, or maybe someone’s mother died that morning. You never know.

Give yourself the benefit of the doubt. And also keep writing. No one is perfect, so if you really are questioning yourself, remember that improvement is the best solution, not a pity party. :3