How to Write Through Rejection
Let’s be honest—rejection sucks. Whether it’s a form letter from an agent, a “close but not quite” from an editor, or a Goodreads review that makes you want to crawl under your desk with a box of donuts, rejection stings.
But here’s the truth that every working writer learns sooner or later: Rejection is not the end of your writing journey—it’s part of it. And more often than not, it’s also a weird little badge of honor. If you’re getting rejected, that means you’re out there. You’re doing the work. You’re brave enough to try.
Still, it doesn’t mean it’s easy. So here are a few real-world, no-fluff strategies for writing through rejection instead of letting it stop you.
1. Feel it, but don’t unpack and live there
It’s okay to be disappointed. It’s okay to cry a little (or a lot). But don’t let the rejection define your worth or your work. Set a timer. Give yourself a rejection ritual—ice cream, a walk, a text to your writing bestie. Then close the email and get back to creating.
Rejection only wins if it gets you to stop.
2. Create a “Rejections Received” folder (and make it a trophy case)
Instead of hiding rejection emails in shame, turn them into a badge of resilience. Every “no” is proof that you’re putting yourself out there. Some writers aim for 50 or even 100 rejections a year—not because they love rejection, but because it means they’re consistently submitting.
📁 Bonus tip: Create a “Nice Rejections” folder for those personal notes or kind words. You’ll need them on tough days.
3. Keep something fun and messy on the side
When your polished, carefully crafted manuscript gets passed over, it’s easy to feel like everything you write is garbage. That’s why it helps to have a side project with zero pressure—a story just for fun, a fanfic, a weird little short story that nobody will see but you.
This keeps your creative joy alive and reminds you why you started writing in the first place.
4. Learn (when there’s something to learn)
Not all rejections are helpful, but some do carry useful feedback. If an agent mentions that the pacing was off or the hook wasn’t strong enough, take note. If multiple people give the same critique, it might be time to take a second look.
Just don’t let every rejection shake your confidence. Sometimes, it really is about timing, market fit, or pure subjectivity. (Seriously. So much subjectivity.)
5. Build a writing community (and lean on it)
Writing is a solo sport, but publishing doesn’t have to be. Find your people—a critique group, a Discord server, an online community like The Writer’s Sanctuary’s Red Herring Society. Talk to others about their own rejection stories. You’ll quickly realize a healthy community will encourage and inspire you!
Community helps you keep going when your confidence takes a hit. Let people remind you why your voice matters.
6. Keep your eyes on your own paper
It’s tempting to compare yourself to others—especially when someone you know gets an agent or a book deal or a 10/10 glowing review. But you don’t know their full journey, and it has nothing to do with yours.
Rejection doesn’t mean you’re not talented. It just means your work hasn’t landed in the right hands yet. Stay focused. Keep going.
7. Set micro-goals and keep writing forward
Big dreams are awesome, but when you’re in the pit of discouragement, small goals can be your ladder out. Write 100 words. Outline one new scene. Research one new contest or agent. Tiny steps still move you forward.
And here’s the magic: Writing through rejection builds muscle. It makes you better, more resilient, and more connected to the work itself.
Rejection will always be part of the writing life—but it doesn’t have to be the end of the story. In fact, it might just be the chapter that teaches you the most about your grit, your voice, and your capacity to grow.
So take a breath. Take a break if you need to. Then pick up your pen and write anyway.
You’ve got this. And your “yes” is out there. 💛
