Feel is more powerful than think. What a thought! Here's another to go with it. Don't fear the fear that others fear.
That sounds like doublespeak, but it's actually a simple concept. Don't be afraid of what others fear, just because they fear it.
People talked so much about how many rejections they'd received on their books that I was certain the same thing would happen to me. I was afraid I wouldn't be able to keep going if that happened.
For many years, I wouldn't submit my work. When I achieved greater confidence in my skill and sent my first manuscript to a publisher, it was in Feb 2004. By that April, I had a contract. I've released seven books since then.
Whether I had succeeded or failed, the message is the same. Don't let the fear of what others fear become yours. Let yourself feel powerful. That's more powerful than you think. Don't own failures that others have claimed.
Take the next step in your journey. Leave your own footprints. When you reach a wall, don't stop. Look around and find the next place you can step forward, and then go.
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5 comments:
I love this. I have enough failures of my own without taking on other peoples. Thanks for the reminder!
I think the "I was rejected __ number of times" advice veterans give us noobs is mean to help us overcome the fear. That first R hurts hard, and it's encouraging to know that other folks have felt it and then have gone on to succeed. I don't fear, but I'm not sure it's safe to allow myself to hope.
Vivien - hope is what gets you to send out the next ms, query, or letter. I hope for the best and prepare for the worst. This way, no matter what happens, I'm not floundering as to what to do. Hang in there!
I hope for the best and prepare for the worst.
Really good advice.
Kayelle, good advice!
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