I got that dreaded phone call. It was the one from the hiring committee from that big job promotion I was certain I’d land.
They decided to go with someone else.
I was in shock for fifteen minutes. But I’ve been here before. This was the same feeling I had when I was told—twice—that I had to rewrite my 200+ page thesis.
Didn’t make the moment suck less.
It’s hard enough trying to make it as a paid writer. It’s also tough getting your writing published—or hearing no.
But it’s trying times like these where rejection in our writing or writing careers can hold us back—or move us forward.
I choose to keep going.
Lesson 1: Reaffirm What You Want
After ten hours of interviewing, hand shaking and department discussions, was this what I really wanted? Did this position align with my values, my talent and my ambitions?
Not so much.
So what was it that I really wanted?
I made a list. I thought big picture. I reevaluated my skills and how I wanted to put them to good use.
When you get stuck, reaffirm that your writing goal is still worth seeking. If not, rework it so that your goal rejuvenates your passion to get back into the game.
Lesson 2: This Isn’t Your One & Only Shot
To think that it’s the end of the world that I didn’t get offered this position is downright silly. There are numerous opportunities across the country—and the globe—where my writing and marketing talents can be put to great use.
Totally not fishing for compliments here.
It’s the same with your writing. Just because your writing was rejected by that one publisher doesn’t mean your story will never get published. Either your story needs to be revisited or you chose to propose to the wrong publisher.
The longer you dwell, the more missed opportunities will pass you by.
Lesson 3: Bounce Back—And Fast
I gave myself two hours to pout. Then I went back to work.
I devised a strategy (see Lesson 1) then jumped back into my job search with more gusto, more clarity and more determination on where I wanted my career to go.
Rock Bottom doesn’t have to mean landing flat on your face. Make it a trampoline and bounce back, aiming to go higher than before.
That’s what I’m doing. And I can’t wait to land on my feet.