On the eve of submissions opening, let’s talk managing expectations!

#PitchWars isn’t the only time managing expectations is critical to writing, especially traditional publishing.

From the moment you started your story, you began to build expectations of what it’d become (1/6)

Either consciously or subconsciously. And there’s nothing wrong with that! It’s hard not to put all your hopes & dreams into something that takes so much work, time, & love.

Who wouldn’t want to believe the path is straight and even and filled with picture perfect markers? (2/6)

But the biggest favor you can do for yourself, whether for PW or querying & beyond, is realize and accept the path is rarely that easy.

There’s so much out of your control in traditional publishing. PW/querying/submission are all moments you hand your dream over to others (3/6)

And in every instance, there are plenty of chances for bumps and detours and inclines you won’t expect.

Rarely, if ever, will multiple people love your book for the same thing, have the same vision, or even point out the same critiques. That’s what you should expect. (4/6)

Now, I’m not saying to not dream (because let’s be honest, Is that even possible?)

But protect yourself and your mental health by acknowledging that your worth and potential is not limited to the experiences had with one single project in one single path. (5/6)

So manage your expectations now and take what you need to care for yourself.

There are lots of paths, and rarely are any two the same. And the hardships and dead ends found in one doesn’t guarantee you can’t walk the rest of them, I promise (6/6)