Tag Archives: Query

WHAT I LIKE AND DISLIKE MOST ABOUT WRITING

like-dislike2LIKE: The feeling of fulfillment.
DISLIKE: Knowing that it does not matter how much time and effort you put into your works, you will never please every reader.

LIKE: Positive feedback.
DISLIKE: The suspense of waiting for a critique.

LIKE: The oneness with your imagination.
DISLIKE: When I post something new, I get obsessed with my stats for that day.

LIKE: The ability to create and control a world with words. It’s like writing the pictures in my head.
DISLIKE: Trying to get published.

LIKE: Having conversations with other writers about their works, and being able to understand their thoughts and feelings.
DISLIKE: When I send out a query, and the agent does not respond; not even a rejection.

LIKE: The encouragement and enthusiasm of so many people for me to publish my book.
DISLIKE: Knowing that it doesn’t matter how many rereads I do, I could still make human errors.

LIKE: Knowing that I am doing what I’ve always wanted to do.
DISLIKE: There is no formula to master. There are rules of grammar and punctuation, but a story can be grammatically correct and well punctuated without being the least bit entertaining. The ability to engage your audience is a talent.

LIKE: People assuming my name is Selima (funny).
DISLIKE: Knowing that even if your book is great, a publisher may not give you a contract because they’ve met their quota on your genre, or the theme is not ‘hot’ right now.

LIKE: When I get started, writing is all I want to do.
DISLIKE: When I start writing, I push everything else in my life aside.

LIKE: Knowing that there is always more to learn.
DISLIKE: Knowing that there is always more to learn.

DIARY POST 17: MY FIRST QUERY REJECTION

So far this week has been one of the most productive I’ve had for a long time. I am ready and willing to work, and best of all I am enjoying it. But sometimes things come along to test your faith, your patience, and your dedication. This week my test was a rejection email.

Yesterday I was rushing out of the office to meet with the Artist who will design my book cover. I was gathering my stuff when the email came through on my phone. Immediately, I recognized the name to be an agent I had queried. My heart skipped only one beat when I read that my request was declined. Very unlike my nature, I smiled. I knew with all my heart that that was not  a stumbling block in my way. I appreciate that he (the agent) replied to my email, because a lot of them do not. He was very respectful and encouraging. However, if I did not have a plan I might not have been able to receive his regards.

One thing I have learnt in my life is your attitude can delay your progress. I was certain that I would cry if I was rejected by an agent. When it happened  all I thought about was getting to my meeting on time.  I feel like I barely noticed that a door closed.

By this morning I was offered a wonderful opportunity pertaining to my novel, and I found $5.00, so what do I have to complain about.

A long time ago I decided that the only person that can hold me back is me. Of all the things I can do with myself right now, stressing makes the least sense.

This is a great message from Joel Osteen. http://www.joelosteen.com/Pages/MessageViewer.aspx?date=2013-11-14

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