back in the game
I ended up taking a short break that turned into a long hiatus (as one does) after #DVPit, for a couple of fun reasons. One of the reasons came back in April. I had some success in DVPit (a couple of likes from agents which was really cool!!) but this was the first time I’d ever done a pitch contest-- or even been vulnerable and open about my work outside of my critique partners-- and it was kind of overwhelming. Especially seeing how successful other pitches were (deservedly so, might I add!). This was the first time I’d really put myself out there and it was great to interact with everyone else, but I also felt uncomfortable and sub-par. Dealing with rejection is a natural part of life and a guarantee in the publishing world, I’m aware, but I haven’t really developed a thick skin yet. I’m still learning how to pick myself up after rejection happens.
This sounds incredibly sappy, but I took the lack of hearts and retweets as a personal shunning and as a overly sensitive Pisces, I took that to heart. I know I’ll get better at developing a thick skin, but I realize I have a lot to learn.
I realize that I actually self-rejected my own work and this turned into a fear of the work itself. For two months I barely touched my work and I’m just now getting back into the habit of writing everyday.
I have a lot of work I have to do, but I’m going to keep going! Also if anyone has any tips on how to deal with self-rejection, motivation, or other writing related tips I would really appreciate them!
