Hello March!
Managing the Art of Feedback and Rejections
Hi! I’m glad you’re here!
This month the Illoguild has decided to tackle the topic of “rejection.” Whether you’re yielding a pen, a paintbrush or other obstacle, we’ve all faced rejection on our journey. How we confront and navigate rejection defines our growth and resilience. As someone who came into this group from the writing side, I’ve learned that one of the accepted mantras is the expectation that as a writer, one must continue submitting manuscripts and keep a spreadsheet of the rejections. The rejections could manifest in the form of a letter from an agent stating, “Nice writing but I don’t connect with it,” or another agent might appreciate your work just as it is. Some may say, “This business is very subjective,” or “Keep editing, it’s not ready yet,” while others might not respond at all. It’s not uncommon for writers to maintain spreadsheets with over 100 - 200 submissions and rejections. Personally, I stopped counting after I submitted over 50 query letters and manuscripts with similar replies.
Thank God for critique groups. It helps after receiving the rejections to have someone supportive around to talk through it. Looking back, I realize the rejections have strengthened my work. They have compelled me to spend more time editing and honing my craft. It’s easy to let the rejection play with your emotions. We can use that as an excuse to quit or better yet, to dig in and dig deeper into improving our craft.
Negative voices can easily influence us—thoughts like, “Maybe, I’m not good at this,” or “Maybe I shouldn’t keep moving forward,” might creep in. It’s important to reflect inwardly and remind ourself why we are pursuing our passions. Most days I enjoy writing and drawing and there’s nothing more I want, than to improve my skills. I strive to improve on my perspective, line quality, lettering, color palettes, composition and design. After I take a deep dive to reflect on the feedback, or rejection, I try to remind myself of the purpose behind my endeavors. If I can tell a story that inspires or encourages a young child that would be immensely gratifying.
It’s important to remember that other people don’t define us either. Criticism of our work shouldn’t alter our opinion of ourself. Having faith in ourself, our unique talents and in God or Higher Power, can ease our path and provide a source of inspiration and hope. Personally, my faith has been my greatest asset especially when facing seemingly many insurmountable challenges that are out of my control.
“All religions, arts and sciences are branches of the same tree. All these aspirations are directed toward ennobling man’s life, lifting it from the sphere of mere physical existence and leading the individual towards freedom.” Albert Einstein
I wish you, dear Reader, faith in yourself and your journey and a supportive critique group or close friends that can accompany you through the ups and downs along the way. Remember, you are stronger than you know. Believe in yourself.
I hope you join us for our monthly Podcast where the Illoguild talks about how to master the art of feedback and rejection.
Join us Monday, March 4, for illoguild live Zoom No. 6 where we’ll discuss rejection, what it means, how to handle it and how to move on. Sign up below:
(working on a classroom scene for my picture book)
Until next month, wishing you all the best,
Noreen Anne
Got to enjoy some boating time with family at Lake Pleasant, Arizona this week.
“With God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:2