Cintia asked Amanda Cabot:

I'm an aspiring writer, but I'm dealing with two things: I get discouraged every single day because 96% of manuscripts are rejected, and I haven't had an idea for years, literally. There's too many people wanting to be writers, and knowing there's so much competition just kills me a little every day. When I get motivated, immediatly something appears about the industry that kills it. Any tips on how to deal with this?

Amanda Cabot Although I'd never advise anyone to adopt an ostrich-with-its-head-in-the-sand attitude toward industry news, my advice is to stop reading and/or listening to it for a while. Let your ideas flow freely. Don't censor them by saying, "I'll be part of the 96% that are rejected." Instead, consider that you might be part of the other 4%. Keep writing. In fact, try to write every day. And join a writers group. Being with others who are struggling with the same issues can be energizing and motivating. Above all, DO NOT GIVE UP.

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