Mostly True Memoirs
Be Gentle With Yourself
Be gentle with yourself.
As a writer, few experiences are as exhilarating and nerve-wracking as receiving reviews of your work. Positive reviews can be a source of joy and validation. Critical reviews, on the other hand, can sting and dampen your creative spirit. It’s essential to remember that not everyone will resonate with your writing, and that’s perfectly okay. In this post, we’ll explore the impact of reviews, why it’s crucial not to take them too seriously, and the importance of focusing on your loyal readers.
The Emotional Impact of Reviews
Receiving feedback on your writing can be an emotional rollercoaster. Positive reviews can uplift your spirits, affirming that your hard work has paid off and that your words have touched readers’ hearts. However, critical reviews can hit hard, leaving you feeling vulnerable and questioning your skills as a writer. It’s natural to be affected by these opinions, but it’s essential to handle them with grace and perspective.
The Inevitability of Diverse Opinions
As the saying goes, “You can’t please everyone,” and this holds especially true in the world of writing. Every reader brings their unique experiences, preferences, and tastes to the table. What resonates deeply with one reader may not connect with another. Understanding and accepting this diversity of opinions is vital for maintaining a healthy perspective on reviews.
Imagine your favorite book or movie. Chances are, you’ve come across someone who didn’t enjoy it as much as you did. This doesn’t diminish your enjoyment or appreciation of the work, and the same principle applies to your writing. Remember that art is subjective, and diverse opinions are a natural part of the creative process.
Don’t Take Them Too Seriously
When faced with critical reviews, it’s essential to approach them with an open mind but also with a grain of salt. Evaluate the feedback for any constructive insights that can help you grow as a writer. Constructive criticism can be valuable, offering opportunities for improvement and growth in your craft. However, not all negative feedback will be constructive or applicable to your writing goals.
Be mindful of the tone and context in which reviews are given. Some reviews may be driven by personal bias, unrealistic expectations, or even a bad day on the reader’s part. Learn to distinguish between genuinely helpful feedback and subjective opinions that may not align with your writing style or intentions.
Embrace Your Loyal Readers: Your True Audience
Instead of dwelling on critical reviews, focus on your loyal readers—the individuals who resonate with your voice, your storytelling, and your unique perspective. These readers are your true audience, and their support is a testament to the value of your work. Remember that even best-selling authors have faced criticism, but they have also cultivated a loyal following that appreciates their writing.
Nurture the relationship with your loyal readers by engaging with them, acknowledging their feedback, and showing appreciation for their support. By connecting with your audience, you build a sense of community and encouragement, which can sustain you during times of uncertainty or negative feedback.
Be Gentle with Yourself: A Journey of Growth
Writing is a journey of growth, self-discovery, and vulnerability. Embrace the fact that not every review will be glowing, and that’s okay. Use feedback, both positive and negative, as an opportunity to learn, evolve, and refine your craft. Be gentle with yourself, acknowledging that no writer is perfect, and even the most celebrated authors have faced criticism.
Remember that you are more than the sum of your reviews. Writing is an art, and as an artist, your voice is valuable and deserving of expression. Be patient with yourself and trust the process. Celebrate your successes, learn from your challenges, and keep moving forward, knowing that your writing will continue to evolve and touch the hearts of those who connect with it.
Conclusion
Reviews are an inevitable part of a writer’s journey. While positive reviews can be uplifting, critical reviews can be disheartening. Remember that the diversity of opinions is natural and that not everyone will resonate with your writing. Embrace your loyal readers, nurture your relationship with them, and focus on the joy of storytelling. Be gentle with yourself, understanding that growth and improvement come with time and dedication. Keep writing from your heart, and your voice will find its way to the readers who truly appreciate and connect with your work.
Liz Brenner
Everyone has a story to tell.
Even you.
Especially you.