Tips for Writers
Tips for Writers
The Three-Hour Rule
by Bonnie Drury
The three-hour rule can be used in many situations, but I adhere to it religiously when I receive rejections. Some rejections are harder to take than others, especially when you've talked to the editor, tried to follow her suggestions for revisions, and met her deadline. Whether the editor moves to another publisher, the line folds, or the book you've sweated blood over simply isn't right for them, you still feel a great sense of loss and disappointment.
Try this next time. When the dreaded rejection comes and your stomach feels like you've swallowed a cantaloupe whole, allow yourself three hours to grieve.
Cry in the shower, curse, sit on the couch in an old chenille robe and stare into space, whatever fits your mood.
Soak in a bubble bath, drink a bottle of champagne, inhale a box of See's chocolates, call your friends and complain about editors who are too young to have an ounce of common sense when it comes to recognizing your talent.
Really get into it and savor the pain of overwhelming failure.
BUT...at the end of the three hours, pick yourself up off that sofa and decide on a plan of action. Every writer should have the next publisher in mind when sending off a manuscript.
Are more revisions needed? Get busy! Has a new idea captured your every waking moment? Get on it! Would a trip to the library produce the research material for that extra spark? Grab the car keys.
Whatever it takes, we must continue to look ahead.
Action dispels depression. Make it happen!
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