I got the Low-Down Rejection Blues

Rejection is inevitable in this business. Let’s face it, most writers will hear more, “No’s” than “Yes’s.” It’s hard not to let yourself get down hearted. It’s hard not to lose faith in your work. As much as agents say “It’s not personal,” rejection is just that. In essence it’s saying, “You’re not good enough for me.”

Now, I am not trying to take frustration out on agents. They have a hard job too. They have to go through thousands of queries and pick only a handful to represent. I get that. I can completely understand that side of it. I wouldn’t want their job. I’d hate to have to be the one rejecting.

That doesn’t change the fact that when a rejection comes in, it is personal. So with all that whining in mind, how do you deal with it?

For me. I’m going to have a nice drink and relax this evening. Maybe sit down and watch a movie with my daughter, forgetting all about writing for the rest of the day.

10 comments:

Danyelle L. said...

Depending on how things are going in life, the rejection can sting worse or not be so bad. It's an inevitable part of life, but not a fun one. :)

*commiseration cookies*

Janna Leadbetter said...

Aw, I'm sorry about your rejection. *hugs*

I have a good cry (because when does that NOT work?), and then move on to more positive thinking. I start the old pep talk string, and immerse myself in the craft and my network of support once again.

Best to you!

Jessica Nelson said...

Hmmm, good question. I think it depends on what kind. Form rejections are actually less painful. I think the rejection on a partial hurts pretty badly, or even on pages. And then, the one full rejection I had...well, I cried. It was a sorry sight. LOL
I hope your plans pick you up. It helps to remember that there are more agents, and if you run out of them, then you can cold query editors.

Jody Hedlund said...

Yes, rejections always hurt!! No way around it. But I guess if we're driven enough to write, we'll lick our wounds and keep on fighting.

Tess said...

It's miserable, true. Remind yourself that not everyone will relate to your work. Some of my favorite books are other's least so. I try to think of it more like a treasure hunt...where I'm looking to find just the right fit. Delusional? Maybe, but it works for me :)

Katie Salidas said...

Thanks for the commiseration cookies! Yummy. he he he.

Yeah, it stings. I'm trying my best to keep my head up and let rejects roll down my back. I like to hear how others deal with this too. Makes me feel I'm not the only one.

Katie Salidas said...

Jessica, wow I don't even want to think about having a full rejected. *hugs*

Katie Salidas said...

Tess, that is so true! I have tons of favorite books that aren't well liked by other and vice versa.

Lynnette Labelle said...

I haven't had to deal with that yet because I haven't sent anything out. I'm not looking forward to it. That's writing life though. Hang in there.

Lynnette Labelle
http://lynnettelabelle.blogspot.com

Kathy said...

I don't deal with rejection very well. I usually cry or I throw things around.

Sometimes I call up a girlfriend and bitch about it. Once I get if off my chest I feel better.

About The Author

Katie Salidas is a USA Today bestselling author and RONE award winner known for her unique genre-blending style.

Since 2010 she's penned five bestselling book series: the Immortalis, Olde Town Pack, Little Werewolf, Chronicles of the Uprising, and the all-new Agents of A.S.S.E.T. series. As her not-so-secret alter ego, Rozlyn Sparks, she is a USA Today bestselling author of romance with a naughty side.

In her spare time Katie also produces and hosts a YouTube talk show; Spilling Ink. She also has a regular column on First Comics News where she explores writing from a nerdy perspective.