Earlier this year I had a full request on my manuscript. It was followed a few weeks later by rejection. Honestly? It hurt like hell. Rejection hurts, and there’s nothing wrong with allowing yourself to feel it. But it’s important to take more from it than that. After some reflection, these are the things I’ve taken from it.
Advice
Not all rejections come with advice. But on the occasion that they do, it is so valuable. The agent who sent my recent rejection was kind enough to share some of his reasons. These were so constructive, and have already given me loads to think about as I work on my next project. Search your rejection for anything that might help you learn. It can be hard to pick out and analyse criticism of your work, but if it helps you to improve then it’s worth it.
Encouragement
When reading through the criticism it can be easy to gloss over any encouragement. But many agents are quick to explain that opinions are objective, and your work could easily be suitable for another agent. They may even compliment your writing skills as well as wishing you luck as you progress as a writer. Take it and hold onto it.
Determination
Let the ‘no’ fuel your passion. Let it increase your determination to succeed. Remember that each ‘no’ takes you a step closer to finding your ‘yes.’ Let it push you to edit more, work on more projects, write more books. Reflect on how much you believe in your work, on the fact you ever felt confident enough to send it out in the first place. A ‘no’ is still an accomplishment, because submitting your work to an agent is a huge step. And however disappointed you may be, dust off and carry on.
Share your rejection stories below, and share anything you were able to take from them.
And until then,
Keep writing (and editing, and querying!)
M
x
Uninspired Writers 
🤓
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Found u one insta…mine is @Sne8798
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Following back! X
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So sorry to hear about your rejection, Meelie. It’s good to hear you did get some useful feedback though. I had 22 rejections and none of them gave me any feedback, just a lot of “it’s not right for my list”. I’m sure you’ll take that feedback and make your MS even stronger 😊.
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Thank you lovely xx
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It will always hurt. I tried telling myself it was all part of the process but every rejection stung a little. Some stung a lot. But you keep going because you know that the alternative is to give up. If you believe in your work, someday, someone will too.
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Thanks so much Bryan! X
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I’ve read this post so many times, and each time I’m reassured about my own journey. I’ve not yet had a full request, but the writing complements keep coming, which gives me hope and encouragement.
Your post reminds me of those compliments.
I know your day is coming, hang in there. Successful people are those willing to keep trying when the others have quit. I’m looking forward to celebrating your success. 💜💜💜😘
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Thank you Rainy! ❤ Those compliments are so important, and such big achievements. I know you'll get there too ❤ xx
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