Rejection and criticism are common, especially in creative fields. When we put our work into the world, we are opening ourselves up to the opinions of other people. However, it is imperative that we understand that rejection and criticism should not be seen as wholly negative. When handled correctly, they can help us grow and hone our crafts.

As a writer, we must separate our ego from our work. We cannot think so highly of ourselves that we cannot accept edits. Our work is critiqued or rejected because there is potential in what we wrote. It is important that we keep this in mind to ensure that we do not let our ego convince us we don’t need to listen to what others may say. The comments we may receive are not an attack on us; they are simply an assessment of what we have presented and how it can be improved. In the end, we want others to be able to fully enjoy what we put out. We must listen to any feedback for that to happen.

If you don’t fully comprehend the reasoning behind the criticism or rejection, feel free to ask questions to better understand. You’re allowed to know their thought process; however, you must be able to listen to their explanations. Take what they are telling you and reflect on it. You can use this to grow as a creator so that when you present your work again, you have a better chance of being published.

The best thing you can do when it comes to criticism is to pay attention to what keeps being repeated. If you are continuously told that you are too wordy or aren’t descriptive enough, be sure to work on it. Take time to go through your work to try to understand why you are being told that. When you become aware of what isn’t working, you can adjust your technique. It may not feel the best to be told that you are less than perfect, but it is only done so you can perfect your craft.

Remember: this criticism or rejection is not a reflection of your worth as a writer. Don’t respond to literary criticism with self-hatred or self-criticism. Both you and your work are still worthy of a chance at publication, even though it may not feel like it right now. Take a short reprieve from your project and give yourself time to become at peace with the feedback you were given. This can help you avoid making rash decisions or doing something you may regret later.

Don’t let this stop you from doing what you are passionate about. Keep improving your project and pitching it to others. Just because one person rejected you doesn’t mean there isn’t another opportunity out there waiting for you. Criticism and rejection aren’t meant to prevent you from doing what you want to do; it is only meant to help you put out a creation you are fully proud of and happy with. Persevere and continue to be open to the opinions of others; you’ve got this!