How to Accept Writing Criticism

You are a writer because you love expressing yourself through words. There is an undying passion for prose, a creativity that just never seems to die. For each writer, every piece is like their child; they have created it and nurtured it, and when an editor comes along and disciplines it, the wall of defense automatically goes up. Yet to succeed as writer, you must be willing to learn and grow. For this to take place, you must have the ability to accept criticism.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Keep an open mind. Whether you feel you are an expert on the topic you are writing about, or have researched the topic to death, the editor is reading your piece from an objective point of view. She is there to help you enhance your piece and make it the best it can be while offering tips that can help you improve your writing skills. Letting your ego blind you from these two vital aspects of constructive criticism will hinder you in the long run.

2. Admit you are not perfect. When a piece is returned to you with comments about mistakes or fact errors, don't become angry with the editor; they were your mistakes. No one, not even a writer with 20 year of experience, is perfect. Believing you are will be your downfall, and what could have been constructive criticism to help you improve your skills becomes nothing but wasted time for both you and the editor.

3. Walk away. Many writers experience burnout after a while, especially when they push themselves to write an extraordinary number of pieces in a short period. If you receive a piece back with suggestions or requests you don't think are justified or seem impossible, take a break and come back later. It's amazing how differently you will view the request after taking 30 minutes to breathe some fresh air. Generally you are able to understand why the requests are made and are more willing to comply with them.

4. Remember where they started. Most editors began their careers as writers, and some do both. Keeping this in mind when you receive constructive criticism makes it easier to accept their words and realize they have both the knowledge and experience to help make you a force to be reckoned with in the freelance world.

5. Think before you speak. Whether you leave your piece as is with an note explaining why, or you make the requested changes and send a comment back, choose your words carefully. At times an editor may come across as aloof in his comments about your piece, but maybe he has had a bad day and didn't realize how his words sounded as you read them. When you respond, do so with respect and kindness; it might make him feel appreciated, just as you want appreciation for what you do. You might even lift his spirits and make his day better.

References

• Zen Habits

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