A traditional publishing journey is a challenge for even the most experienced author. I have yet to reach that goal of being a traditionally published author, but I have not given up. I spend most of my time writing picture book stories and revising manuscripts. The rest of my time is spent sending queries to seek an agent to represent my stories. I have been submitting manuscripts and queries for about a year and a half, but it seems like a lot longer.
5 Survival Tips for Your Journey
Positivity
Every step of the journey, you will need to tell yourself “I can do it.” There’s no room for negative self-talk. When it starts to creep into my mind, I try to turn the negative thoughts into a positive affirmation. You may prefer to write it down in a journal or write it on a piece of paper and tear it into pieces. Most importantly, try to put it behind you and keep going.
Keep Writing
Part of keeping going is keeping writing. I recommend you start your next manuscript after you send out your first query. Hearing back from queries can take up to 3 months. You can write your next story because agents will often ask to see more of your writing. It was recommended to me to have several polished stories ready just in case they are needed.
Rejection
Rejection is a reality and it can be tough. I have learned not to take it personally. If my story is rejected it just means that it is not the right match for my book. The right match will come along when the time is right. Rejection is a time to reflect on the story. If 3 agents have passed on my story it tells me I need to either change something or move on and start writing a new story.
Patience
If you want to be an author, you need to have patience. I still need to work on this one. My impatience grew with my illustrator. I wanted my first book to move a little quicker, but it came together at exactly the right time. However long you think it might take, I would triple that. In traditional publishing it can take 2-3 years before you see your book in print.
Failure
Remember the path to success is paved in failure. If you fail at landing an agent that first time congratulate yourself. It means you’re closer to getting one with the next book. Failure always has a lesson for us. I try to find the lesson. Writing my first query letter was very intimidating, especially after I received a critique that was less than glowing. I saw that as a failure when in fact it was a lesson. A lesson on how to write a stronger query letter.
Writing Group
Writing can get lonely. We need other writers in our circle. Look for other writers in your community or online. I belong to Teach Write, a group of teachers who write and teach writing. We write together weekly via Zoom. I also participate in the 12 x 12 Challenge . That group is very supportive and I have been able to write at least one new picture book draft each month. Writing groups will rally around you and support you through all of author ups and downs. My book would not be possible without my writing groups.
Thoughts …
I still do not have an agent or a contract, but I do not let that stop me. Someone mentioned to me that I like to roll the dice. It took me a few minutes, but it is the truth. If I get a rejection, I just tuck it away and go to the next agent on my list. My philosophy is if not this one, then maybe the next one. I wish you the best on your traditionally published journey.
With gratitude …
I am glad you’re here. Thank you for taking the time to read this post. I am grateful that I can share my writing journey with you. It is an endless journey of learning and growing. A journey that I am enjoying.
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