How to manage failure as a writer

There’s no getting around it: all writers experience failure at some point in their careers. Whether it’s a rejection from a literary agent, a bad review from a critic, or simply not making the sales you expected, failure is an inevitable part of being a writer.

And yet, despite its inevitability, failure can be incredibly difficult to deal with. As writers, we pour our heart and soul into our work, and when that work is rejected or criticized, it can feel like a personal attack. It’s easy to become discouraged and to start doubting your ability as a writer.

So how do you manage failure as a writer? Here are 10 tips:

1. Don’t take it personally.

This is easier said than done, of course, but it’s important to remember that when your work is rejected or criticized, it’s not a reflection on you as a person. It’s just a reflection on your work. If you can separate the two in your mind, it will be easier to handle the disappointment and move on.

2. Learn from your mistakes.

When you do receive constructive criticism, try to take it to heart and use it to improve your writing. Don’t dwell on the negative feedback, but instead use it as a learning opportunity to make your work better.

3. Be persistent.

Remember that even the most successful writers have experienced failure at some point in their careers. J.K. Rowling was rejected by 12 different publishers before finally finding success with Harry Potter. If she had given up after the first few rejections, we would have never heard of the Boy Who Lived.

4. Don’t compare yourself to others.

It’s easy to feel like a failure when you compare your work to that of other writers, but it’s important to remember that everyone’s path to success is different. Just because someone else’s work is being published or praised doesn’t mean that yours isn’t good enough.

5. Celebrate your successes.

In the midst of all the failures, it’s important to take a step back and celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem. A positive review from a reader, a favorable mention in a literary magazine, or even just finishing a difficult project are all accomplishments worth celebrating.

6. Find a supportive community.

There’s nothing like talking to other writers who understand what you’re going through to make you feel better about your own career. Find a group of writers that you can connect with, either in person or online, and lean on them for support and advice.

7. Take some time off.

If you’re feeling particularly down about your writing, it might be helpful to take a break from it for a while. Step away from your work-in-progress and focus on something else for a while. When you come back to your writing, you’ll likely have fresh eyes and a renewed sense of enthusiasm.

8. Read inspiring stories.

When you’re feeling low, it can be helpful to read stories of other writers who have faced and overcome similar challenges. These stories will remind you that you’re not alone in your struggle and that success is possible.

9. Practice self-care.

It’s important to take care of yourself both mentally and physically when you’re dealing with failure. Make sure you’re eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your body will help take care of your mind.

10. Set realistic goals.

One reason why failure can be so discouraging is that our expectations are often unrealistic. If you set your sights too high, you’re bound to be disappointed. So instead of shooting for the stars, focus on setting realistic goals that you can actually achieve.

Conclusion:

Facing failure is never easy, but it’s important to remember that it’s a normal part of the writing process. If you can learn to handle disappointment and use it as a learning opportunity, you’ll be on your way to success. And don’t forget to find a supportive community of writers to help you through the tough times.