Stuck? Ask this Question by Rochelle Melander

To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing. —Aristotle

No one loves criticism, rejection, or failure. But if you’re going to be a writer, you’re going to get a hefty dose of all three. Expecting it doesn’t make it easier. Every time I encounter one of these roadblocks, I stumble. I want to eat chocolate, drink wine, and wallow in self-pity. And that’s just fine—for a day. But a steady diet of self-pity won’t help you move forward.

Next time you experience criticism, rejection, or failure, ask: what’s next? Then do it. Take one step forward. Just one. Send out a query letter, write a blog post, sign up for a writing class. Do anything to stay in the game. In time, the sting that comes with criticism, rejection, or failure will fade. You will move forward, toward success.