Writing Saturday: V is for Validation

Let us be honest with ourselves; as authors we seek validation from others. We need people to read our books and tell us they loved them.  If they say that hated them, it hurts us. So how do we seek validation without becoming obsessed? Here are a few tips to help you.
1. Know that you cannot please everyone. Even the books on the bestseller lists get negative reviews. There will be people who don’t like your genre, your style, or the fact you mention God. However, there will people who love your book for those same reasons.
2. Give the book to some friends first. Tell them you are learning and would like their opinions but can’t take harsh ones yet. Your friends will often respect that and you will learn to take some criticism, along with the good things they have to say about your book.
3. It is okay to give the book to people you know will like it. Family member s and friends who will like it no matter what can help boost your confidence and make taking the criticism better.
4. There are some days that you should never try to read what others are saying about your story.  Make sure that you are emotionally ready to handle it.
5. Know that as long as you are honor God in your story (this does not mean it has t be preachy) He is pleased with you work.