Thursday, August 05, 2010

The Highs and Lows

Within 24 hours, I experienced the highs and lows of trying to get published.

I sent a query to an agent and within 10 minutes, she responded, requesting a partial. After I sent her the partial, she responded again and said she'd received my manuscript and would get back to me ASAP.

Last night, I took a look at this manuscript again and edited it a bit more just in case she asked for a full. Even though I've edited this thing to within an inch of its life, there's always room for improvement, right?

I had hope in my heart as I went to sleep, coupled with the sharp edge of reality that this could end in another rejection.

When I checked my email this morning, there was an email from said agent.

When I clicked on it and saw the words, "I regret...", my heart fell.

But it wasn't nearly as bad a crash as I thought it would be.

Why?

Because as the agent said in her very nice rejection letter, this is a highly subjective business. What one person likes another person will love. And that's what I want - someone who loves my work, is so behind it that she/he will do whatever it takes to sell it.

My cousin responded to my Facebook post about all of this and said something very revealing:
In my business we actually focus on how many no's we can get because with each one we get closer to a yes! This attitude just turns every no into a stepping stone towards success!!
I'd say that's a pretty darn good attitude to have.

Onward.

6 comments:

  1. No!

    I just gave you a stepping stone, use it wisely ;)

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  2. Your cousin is very wise! I'm querying now too. It brings out the neurotic mess in me!

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  3. I like the way your cousin thinks. Maybe next time will be your 'Yes' time.

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  4. I absolutely agree with your cousin. It's so, so true--every "no" brings you closer to "yes." Especially when you're getting requests for partials and personalized rejection letters...that means you're getting close!

    As you say--Onward.

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  5. Rejection is so hard and very hard not to take personally. but every one has them, and it makes you really appreciate that final 'yes.' good luck to you! Keep on keepin on! :)

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