What to do when you’re waiting…and waiting…
Posted by cynthiathomason on January 24, 2011
The week before last was a pretty good week for me, and the euphoria continued into this week. I heard that I had sold a manuscript to Harlequin’s Special Edition line. Of course this made me very happy, even happier since it had been a while since I’d sold. I don’t know the pub date for the book. I don’t even know its title yet, though now I’m calling it WINNING IT ALL, and I like that title. So I thought I’d blog about what to do while you’re waiting…and waiting… for a publisher to pick up your project.
Okay, #1. Keep writing. I have several projects that are in various stages of completion. It can be hard to keep writing in the face of rejection, but for me it is a necessity.
#2. Take time out for movies. I love movies. They inspire me. But when I’m in a funk, I try to only watch uplifting ones.
#3. Try new avenues of publishing. I now have two books up on Kindle and Book Nook. Learning to go through this process was kind of fun and made my mind less of a airless vacuum.
#4. Get a dog. I suppose I can’t advise everyone to do this, but Sparky raises my spirits every day.
#5. Think of a new business venture (if you don’t have a day job). I’m launching my free lance auction enterprise. Everyone has a talent or skill that might be turned into a paycheck. No paychecks yet for me, but I’m hopeful.
Oh. one last bit of advice. Don’t frequent too many casinos.
Happy writing everyone.
Cynthia
Cynthia Thomason's Chatter 
Allison Chase said
Great advice, especially #1 – keep writing! You might want to add “keep reading” to the list. Not just for inspiration but because it’s always good to stay on top of what’s popular, and what the different publishers are focusing on. Congrats on your sale!!
cynthiathomason said
Of course, Allison! Keep reading! How could I forget? And read different genres. You might get a bolt of inspiration.
Sandra Madden said
Great advice, Cindy. I’m doing much the same except for the sale. But wait! I haven’t submitted anything in a while – which might be part of the problem!
cynthiathomason said
Sandy, You’re such an amazing writer. Submit! Submit!
Nancy Cohen said
Good comments. I’d also add to go to writers conferences. They energize your career and allow you to network with other writers, editors, and agents. You hear what’s happening in the industry and it’s important to stay informed about the marketplace.