Rejection perspective.

A discussion took place with another writer about rejection of manuscripts. So, the way I think of it is like this: Writing and our work is important. Being paid for it is great, (if you are.) Self-publishing is fantastic for its freedom and rewards. Belonging to the ASA is a huge help in keeping Indies informed and educated. Have a top drawer editor, no matter what. If you're picked up by a publisher, well done. And this: Although our worlds revolve around our writing, they should also revolve around many other things; that gives us stability in a very difficult field.

If peer recognition never happens, so be it. If no one ever destroys your precious work by making some truly hideously incorrect movie about it, all the better. If there is no other wage, or way of earning a living, ouch.

Perspective can be lost when agents or publishers reject our work. If there's one thing I've learned from this big journey, it's that it's worth it when: readers write to you and value your words, buy your books and tell their friends to buy your books. When you still want to write even though it's a pain in the neck.

And that the other just-as-important-projects you have going on in your life mean that if you stop writing tomorrow you still have a life that means something to you and has value.