How Stoicism Helps Writers Overcome Rejection and Criticism
Discover the strength of Stoicism in facing the inevitable challenges of rejection and criticism as a writer. This guide offers actionable steps and insights into how Stoic wisdom can transform your writing journey.
In the writing world, rejection and criticism are as inevitable as the blank page. Every submission carries the potential for dismissal; every published piece is subject to scrutiny. It's a vulnerable pursuit that often feels like a direct critique of one's intellect or creativity. Yet, within this landscape of judgment, Stoicism, an ancient Greek philosophy, offers a beacon of resilience and empowerment for writers.
Introduction to Stoicism
Stoicism, founded in the early 3rd century BC, teaches the development of self-control and fortitude as a means of overcoming destructive emotions. At its core, Stoicism is about understanding what is within our control and what isn't and focusing our energy accordingly. This distinction is crucial for writers when navigating the emotional terrain of rejection and criticism.
How Stoic Principles Can Help Deal with Rejection and Criticism
Stoicism offers several fundamental principles that can help writers cope with and embrace rejection and criticism as part of their creative growth.
Understanding What is Within Our Control: Stoicism teaches us that our reactions to external events are within our control, even if the events themselves are not. When faced with rejection, writers can focus on their response—seeking feedback and improving their craft—rather than dwelling on the disappointment.
Viewing Obstacles as Opportunities: Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher, considered obstacles as opportunities to practice virtues. For writers, criticism can be a chance to practice humility, open-mindedness, and perseverance.
Practicing Objectivity: Stoicism encourages a detachment from emotion and personal bias, allowing one to view criticism more objectively. This perspective can help writers discern constructive feedback from unhelpful negativity.
Actionable Steps to Apply Stoic Principles
Reflect on Rejections and Criticism: After receiving a rejection or critique, take a moment to reflect on it without an immediate emotional response. Ask yourself what you can learn from it and how it can serve your growth as a writer.
Journal About Your Experiences: Keeping a journal to document your feelings and thoughts about rejections and criticisms can be therapeutic. It can also help you track your progress in applying Stoic principles.
Seek Constructive Feedback: Actively seek out criticism from trusted peers or mentors. This practice improves your work and strengthens your resilience by normalizing the experience of receiving feedback.
Set Realistic Expectations: Rejection is a natural part of the writing process. Setting realistic expectations about acceptance rates can help mitigate feelings of failure.
Focus on What You Can Control: Improve your craft, submit to appropriate venues, and maintain a consistent writing practice. These are the aspects of your writing career over which you have control.
Personal Success Stories
Many writers have found solace and strength in Stoicism, using its principles to navigate the ups and downs of their careers.
J.K. Rowling: Before the success of the "Harry Potter" series, Rowling faced numerous rejections. She credits her ability to persevere partly to a Stoic mindset, focusing on her love for writing and belief in her story rather than the discouragement of rejection.
Ryan Holiday: An author deeply influenced by Stoic philosophy, Holiday has written extensively on how Stoicism can be applied to modern life. His approach to handling criticism and rejection in his writing career emphasizes the Stoic principles of control and perspective.
Elizabeth Gilbert: While not a Stoic per se, Gilbert's approach to creativity and rejection, as outlined in her book "Big Magic," echoes Stoic teachings. She advocates for pursuing creativity for its own sake, regardless of external outcomes—a Stoic concept of focusing on what's within our control.
Embrace Rejection and Criticism with Stoic Resilience
Stoicism provides a framework for writers to navigate the challenges of rejection and criticism with grace and resilience. By focusing on what is within our control, viewing obstacles as opportunities, and practicing objectivity, we can transform our writing journey into continuous growth and development.
The path of a writer is inherently fraught with external judgments. Yet, applying Stoic principles makes it possible to internalize a sense of perseverance and confidence that transcends the opinions of others. Rejection and criticism, rather than being feared, can be embraced as essential elements of the creative process, pushing us to refine our work and strengthen our resolve.
As you progress in your writing endeavors, consider adopting a Stoic approach to the inevitable challenges you'll face. Embrace rejection and criticism not as verdicts of your worth but as stepping stones on the path to mastery. With Stoicism as your guide, write with confidence, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to your craft.
