I debated sharing this moment, but I think it is important for other writers out there to know about this moment I am having. Rejection. It sucks, but it’s going to happen at one point or another if you’re a writer.

It’s how you deal with it that will make or break you as a writer. I’ve learned that you can either let it destroy you or make you better.

I just got told that I wasn’t a good fit with a freelance writing company I just signed on with. At first, I was upset. Understandably so, as I thought I had hit a landmark in my career, getting hired as a paid writer.

And here’s the thing. I did accomplish something in this experience. I put myself out there, faced rejection, and then continued to make plans to write. Plans to hit the writing reference books and brush up on my skills. And nothing can take that back from me. I wrote a whole list of articles I plan to post over the next several months.

And I realized that maybe this isn’t so bad after all. Maybe this wasn’t the type of writing I was meant to do. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the research aspect and the thrill of having something due at a certain time ( I have Hermione Granger tendencies).

But the work I was doing was not reflecting my best abilities as a writer. And the preparation time took way more time than the pay was worth. I also barely had time for my other projects, let alone my cat.

So another pro tip: Understand Your Worth. You decide how much your work is worth. This can help you decide what kind of writing positions you want to go for. Academic writing requires a lot of outside research for very little pay, as I have come to understand. You have to consistently work on it if you are wanting to make it worth your while.

Had this happened a year ago, I couldn’t say I would have had the same reaction. I probably would have taken this personally. I probably would have let it discourage me from ever trying again. You have to be able to take criticism in the writing world. It can be brutal. You’re going to meet people who totally detest your writing or fans that devour every word you type.

The point is, keep on going. Keep on writing.

I’ve already applied to several new companies, as I continue to explore my career options as a writer. I honestly should have continued to do so while undergoing training in the event that it didn’t work but you live and you learn.

So here’s one tip if you’re planning to pursue a freelance career: Don’t stop looking for writing opportunities. And don’t stop writing. Writing every day will help make it feel less stressful if you’re having anxiety about your abilities. Join a writing network. Go to a Writer’s Workshop. Relax. Don’t push yourself to be the best all at once.

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