1. Separate yourself from your work.
Your identity is found in Christ, NOT your writing. Before sending your work out, take a step back from it. Realize that this isn't personal anymore, it is a product that you made. (I learned this from Thomas Locke at Realm Makers last year.)
2. Realize that beta readers are your friends.
They offered to critique your story because they want to help YOU. It isn't an evaluation of how good of a writer you are.
3. Be open to change.
I've beta read for some people who defend every single editing decision they made. Yeah, that's a little frustrating because how are they supposed to get better?
4. It's okay to be upset, but don't dwell on it.
This isn't quite as easy as it sounds.
5. There's always another novel.
So this novel is beyond hope (at least for the present time). Write another one! And another one! And another one until your writing improves. Even published authors haven't hit their "ceilings".
One of my first critiques on my story was rather harsh. The critique was right about some things, but also didn't agree with the politics or morality in the story, so I got a bit defensive.
ReplyDeleteOne thing I would add to this, if you're feeling upset, wait at least a day before responding to critique.
Great advice!
ReplyDeleteI followed your blog, and I would sincerely appreciate it if you checked out my book reviews blog at https://elsbookreviews.blogspot.ca/ and possibly give it a follow as well! Excited to read more of your posts!
- El
Thanks for the advice! I just recently sent my baby to a couple friends for their thoughts and am waiting in anticipation :)
ReplyDeletehttp://teensliveforjesus.blogspot.com/
Great readingg
ReplyDelete