As a self-published writer, I have limited knowledge of traditional publishing. However, I do have friends that can help fill in the gaps for you.
Writer's Relief is an incredible service that can help you submit your stories and navigate the shifting lanes of the publishing world. Below is a guest post that I'm beyond thrilled to share with you.
If you have more questions by the end, head on over to Writer's Relief or leave us a comment below!
After many tedious hours spent researching markets to submit your creative writing, you’re ready to make submissions! Your master plan is in place. Your work is all dressed up (with someplace to go). You know where and when you’re going to submit your writing, and you couldn’t be more excited about it!
But then life gets busy. Last-minute deadlines, scheduling conflicts, and a million other everyday distractions get in the way.
You want to submit your writing—you really do—but at the end of the day, you’re just so exhausted you can’t bring yourself to type a single word. Plus, given the choice, you’d rather be writing than doing paperwork. Your list of literary markets falls by the wayside, along with all of your good intentions.
It’s a sad truth, but a truth nonetheless: You can plan and schedule, tweak and time everything out, but if those motivational juices aren’t flowing, you’re just left with a well-made plan.
You have to do something to keep your spirits up while making your submissions; otherwise, your writing will never reach the editor’s desk (or the literary agent’s desk). Fortunately, we have some tips to keep you motivated:
5 Ways To Stay Motivated And Make Your Submissions:
Find friends who need some motivation and help them out.
Having someone to lean on in a time of need is always nice, but being there for someone else is even more rewarding. If you find fellow writers who need some motivation, it’s likely they’ll be happy to return the favor and give your spirits a boost.
Compare your notes, talk shop, or just vent your frustrations. Not sure how to meet other writers? Find some local writers groups or writers forums online.
Treat yourself when you meet your goals.
If you find yourself strapped for time, break down your submissions into smaller, more manageable chunks. When you’ve completed your goal (i.e., “I completed my five submissions quota for today!”), reward yourself for your accomplishment.
Choose something you really want but would not usually allow yourself to have. You’ll be more motivated to get your tasks done.
Keep in mind—you’re only human!
We humans get bored, distracted, and sometimes discouraged pretty easily. It’s inevitable that somewhere along the line, we’ll make a mistake or two.
Turn errors into learning experiences instead of beating yourself up (i.e., I didn’t make my submissions today, but I’ll be diligent and get them done tomorrow!).
It doesn’t pay to procrastinate!
If the phrase “Why do today what you can put off until tomorrow?” ever comes out of your mouth, you have the wrong mind-set, friend! Putting off your submissions leads to guilt…which leads to more procrastination. Break the cycle and focus on the end result.
Find your inspiration.
Picture that byline with your name on it in your favorite literary journal. Leave inspirational messages around your workspace. With a constant reminder of your goal in sight, you’ll be much more enthusiastic about getting the busywork out of the way.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, writers. Sending your work out into the world isn’t always easy, and having someone support you in your efforts can go a long way. Now get that motivational mojo flowing! You can do this!
Writer’s Relief is a highly recommended author’s submission service. We assist writers with preparing their submissions and researching the best markets. We have a service for every budget, as well as a free e-publication for writers that includes weekly leads and tips, Submit Write Now! Visit our site today to learn more.
Discussion time: What scares you the most about submitting your work?
Have you read the articles? You know the ones. They say that print publishing is dying, and that e-books are all the rage. They say that self-publishers shouldn't even bother with print books anymore, that they're a waste of time. I admit that I've believed them before.
Here's the thing: maybe print books don't work for everyone. Maybe e-readers are the future. But let's take a look at this logically. If print books are dead, why is Amazon opening physical bookstores? Why are independent bookstores thriving? While there are many reasons, I'd like to sum it up in a word: experience.
As our lives move more and more toward the virtual, people are craving the tangible even more. We love the experience of an independent bookstore. We love the experience of finding our favorite book on the shelves. So, if you're thinking of discounting the print book, I'd take a closer look first.