Hello lovely readers!
As artists I know that sometimes we get a little shy when it comes to sharing our work. Critiques and editorial sessions can be an artist’s worst nightmare. Too often we focus on all the work that needs to be done and the changes that need to be made. Instead we should focus on the positive feedback first. Acknowledge the achievement and progress we have already made.
If we can see the good in anything right where it is, mistakes and all, then we can let it unfold into it’s full magnificence.
This is the process I am currently going through with my book. I am carefully reading through each page with a fine tooth comb… in other words, I hired an editor. Luckily I am blessed to have a close friend who is a professional writer & editor. Three cheers for Melissa Goslin Collins! Hip hip hooray! Her knowledge, gentle guidance and sense of humor is making this part of the process a lot less daunting.
I am happy to report that Melissa has read through the entire manuscript and has given me some incredibly positive feedback. Yay!!!! She told me that laughter, tears and inspiration all found her within these pages. I’d say it’s a good sign to keep moving forward!
I’ve been going through some of her notes today. There are quite a few typos, etc. that I need to fix, but for now let’s focus on the positives…
And just like that I am uplifted, encouraged and motivated. I am actually excited about editing misspelled words and adding commas. I know this is part of the process. The sooner it is completed, the sooner it will be published so you can read it too!
The next time you have someone critique your art remember to highlight all the positives in your mind. Write them down if you need to. Remember you have the power within you to make it shine even brighter.
Love & Blessings,
Jeniffer
April 13, 2012
Very good advice Jeniffer. It is too easy to be our own worst critics. We really should accept good feedback when it is given and try to appreciate the great things we do rather than not only accentuating the less great parts but actively searching them out and broadcasting them. We are all guilty! So thank you for sharing your great feedback and not being ashamed to do so and also for embracing corrections and suggestions also as positive feedback. After all, you have worked hard for it and you deserve success!
April 15, 2012
Thank you Christine! Glad my personal progress can help inspire others on the creative journey.
Much love,
Jeniffer
April 13, 2012
I feel amazingly blessed to have been part of this process. Your book is as powerful, beautiful and meaningful as the woman who write it!
I strongly believe that you, as the author and artist, have the absolute final say on every word, comma and space. Accepting feedback is incredibly tough, but I am starting to understand the value in the process. It forces us to focus on the work itself and its purpose rather than our own egos, which only strengthens our vision. At least in theory; for me, it also increases my cookie intake, which only serves to expand my waistline 🙂 XOXO
April 15, 2012
Okay, that first line made me cry. I feel so blessed that you feel so blessed. Love & gratitude, love & gratitude. I just love this cycle!
(and I totally get the cookie intake line!)