Sometimes in life we face rejection. I know positive-thinking types might say something like, “Well, you learn as much as or more from your failures as you do from your successes.” They may have a point. However, rejection still sucks. Yet, I crave rejection.
A few years ago, I initiated the YOC. YOC stands for year of communication. I was tired of the irony that–despite the incredible ease and multiple outlets for communication–people seem worse at communicating. One of my very few type A personality traits is returning calls/emails/texts etc. expediently. I don’t accept someone saying I was too busy to get back to you. Do you know anyone who is not busy these days? Okay, there may be a couple, but you know what I mean. There is always time for a two-line email or an 8-word text. “Crazy busy over here. Talk to you soon.” I am perfectly content with that type of rejection. So, go ahead friends/family – reject me.
There was a point that I was considering switching schools. Fortunately, I was able to get some interviews. Unfortunately, none of the interviews materialized into jobs. It’s okay. That’s life. I can move on. Really, I can. But something about the process pissed me off. I took time out of my schedule to prepare myself, come to you, answer your questions, and send you a thank you. Is it too much to expect a rejection letter? Tell me no thanks, good luck, and see you never. Yeah, I can easily get over the lack of communication, but it’s not cool dude. Not cool. Just reject me.
One of my goals this summer was to send off some of my work in the hopes of getting it published. I did have a touch of success and a couple of misses (including one where the publication simply publishes the winners without letting the rest of us know we were not chosen). The rest of my submissions – to quote the band Genesis – “No Reply at All.” Now, some (hopefully all) will be contacting me shortly to let me know that they received my submission. The editors will tell me my work blew them way. Ok, maybe not. I can handle it. A writer with thick skin (well, at least not reed thin) – can you believe it? Anyway, reject me.
I feel better now that I have gotten this off of my chest. In fact, I am ready to scream reject me. Just don’t ignore me.
Good luck!
I soooooo can relate to that! Well written post!!
Thanks.
Here’s to rejection
Couldn’t agree more, ignoring people is just rude. Fingers crossed the editors like your work.
Back in the dating world (that God for my husband so that I’m finished with THAT phase), it used to bother me when a guy would go on a date and then just stop calling/returning phone calls! If you’re not interested, I can understand that and move on just fine, but be an adult and say so!! Totally with ya on this one!
I am glad to be out of that world as well.
My theory was once it got past two dates – I had to make the call.
That’s a good theory, as long as you’re letting the other person know which way you decide. Good luck in the world of publishing too. Sounds scary, but exciting as well.
Exciting – yes. Scary – nah. It’s okay.
I know what you mean. Feeling invisible stinks.
Definitely does!
I agree. It is a myth that people cannot take rejection. Rejection is far eaiser to deal with than being ignored. Hoping your work gets published soon. You have the talent!
Yup, being ignored is way worse that getting that rejection letter. With rejection, at least you know where you stand and can move on.
Yes – it’s closure. Bummer but then it’s over. Rip off the bandaid.
Here’s to putting yourself out in the world and taking risks! Bravo! I’m inspired to do the same, reed thin skin or not!
Firstly, thanks.
Secondly, of course your skin is reed thin -stop biting and picking at it. Just joking.
Ha! Good one! You got me there!
I can’t do anything about your publishing dreams, but I do look forward to each new post you write. Does that help any?
It does. Thank you for saying that. I appreciate it very much.
I agree with Jessie. I enjoy reading your posts here and if publishers cannot spot your talent then that’s their loss. Keep going. One step at a time. Wasn’t the first Harry Potter book rejected lots of times before it finally got accepted….
Let me make you feel better…”I’m sorry but the work you recently submitted stunk so bad, even the dumpster wouldn’t take it. Good luck with your Pig Farming Career”
Every Conceivable Publisher Imaginable
xx
Sooz
Truly comforting.
I now know why you were fired from your previous position as a grief counselor.
I know right??? Everybody was so damn WHINY!!!
🙂
Sooz
All very good points. Especially the job interview stuff. You put in your time. The least they could do after interviewing you is send you a polite rejection letter. What is the world coming to?
Rudeness man – it’s rudeness!