writing tips

Failure is an inevitable part of the creative writing process. From facing rejection letters from publishers to receiving critical feedback on Amazon book reviews, every writer encounters setbacks.

And dealing with rejection is not fun. In fact, it can be crippling.

I’m a lot more chilled out about failure than I used to be. I think if you enjoy something, stick at it, but make sure you try and get better with each writing project achieved.

Focus on improvement, rather than failure.

Keep striving, and try not to take failure personally. But sometimes that’s a lot easier said than done!

It takes courage to put your stuff out there in the world, and it can be pretty disheartening for things to not go as well as you’d hoped. So how do you deal with failure and keep on going?

Today, we’re sharing tips on how to do just that.

It’s important to remember that moments of failure do not define a writer’s worth or potential. Instead, they offer valuable opportunities for growth and development.

Failure can even be a good thing, serving as a stepping stone towards success.

1. Reframe Your Mindset

The first step in coping with failure is to reframe your mindset. Instead of viewing failure as a negative thing, see it as a natural part of the creative journey.

Every great writer has faced rejection and criticism. Recognizing that failure is a common experience can help you feel less isolated and more resilient.

Embrace a growth mindset, which involves viewing your abilities and talents as improvable through effort and learning.

With this attitude, failures become learning experiences rather than definitive judgments on your abilities. Each setback is an opportunity to refine your skills and improve your work.

2. Learn from Criticism

Constructive criticism, though sometimes hard to hear, is one of the most valuable tools for a writer. When you receive feedback, take time to analyse it objectively.

Separate the constructive points from the nastiness and use them to get better.

Ask yourself questions like:

• What specific areas can I improve on based on this feedback?
• Are there recurring themes in the criticism I receive?
• How can I apply this advice to future projects?

By focusing on actionable insights, you can turn criticism into growth and produce better work.

3. Develop a Support Network

Having a support network of fellow writers, friends, and mentors can make a significant difference in how you cope with failure.

Share your experiences with others who understand what you’re going through. A good writing network can provide encouragement, perspective, and constructive feedback.

Joining writing groups, attending workshops, and participating in online forums can help you connect with a community that supports your growth.

These connections can provide a sense of belonging and remind you that you’re not alone in your thoughts or struggles. Consider joining a Facebook group, sharing your writing experiences with others.

If you’re auditioning for American Idol, or you’re trying to sell a book, or you’re trying to get on a baseball team, you’re going to get rejected. Right? And so your question is, how bad do you want it?

John Gilstrap

4. Practice Self-Compassion

It’s easy to be hard on yourself when you face failure, but self-compassion is crucial for maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you’d offer a friend.

Acknowledge your efforts and the courage it takes to pursue your passion. Remind yourself that failure is not a reflection of your worth as a person or a writer.

By practicing self-compassion, you can build resilience and maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of failure.

5. Set Realistic Goals

Setting realistic, achievable goals can help you maintain motivation and perspective. Break down larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate your progress along the way, even if the progress seems tiny.

By focusing on the process rather than the end result, you can find satisfaction in your daily efforts and reduce the pressure to achieve immediate success.

This approach helps you stay grounded and keeps you moving forward, one step at a time.

6. Embrace the Learning Process

Failure often provides valuable lessons that success cannot. Embrace these lessons as part of your development as a writer. Reflect on your experiences and identify what you can learn from them.

Consider keeping a journal to document your writing journey.

Write about your challenges, what you’ve learned, and how you plan to apply these insights. This reflective practice can help you process your experiences and gain clarity on your path forward.

7. Stay Persistent

Persistence is key to overcoming failure in creative writing. Many successful writers have faced numerous rejections before achieving recognition. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t is often persistence.

Stay committed to your writing practice, even when the results are not immediate. Keep submitting your work, seeking feedback, and refining your craft.

Each step you take brings you closer to your goals – keep on focusing on this, rather than focusing on a negative story about yourself.

If you don’t want to get hurt, don’t write. If you don’t want to have layers of your own soul exposed to people who say, didn’t really connect with that, don’t put the words down. Because you will be rejected.

Chris Fabry

8. Seek Inspiration

When you’re feeling disheartened by failure, seek inspiration from other writers who’ve faced similar challenges. Read biographies, interviews, and essays by authors who overcame obstacles on their path to success.

Understanding that even the most celebrated writers experienced setbacks can provide perspective and motivation. Their stories can remind you that persistence and dedication can lead to eventual success.

WEIRD WORD OF THE DAY: CONUNDRUM. Meaning a problem to which there is no clear or obvious answer.

9. Take Care of Your Well-being

Your mental and physical well-being play a crucial role in how you handle failure. Make sure to take care of yourself by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Exercise, eat well, and get enough sleep to ensure you’ve got the energy to cope with failures.

Have a life outside of writing. Engage in hobbies that bring you relaxation and joy. These practices can help you recharge and maintain a balanced attitude.

So there you have it. Soldier on, writers, and keep doing what you love!

And happy writing while you’re at it.

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