These are my words. Take um or leave um, but please let me know if they speak to you. The one thing as an aspiring published writer that is most valuable to me is your feedback. It is a gift and it will help me grow.
What is feedback and how does it help us grow?
Growing out of constructive criticism.
When a writer writes they use words to express their thoughts, to share a story. Without words they would not have anything to say. Feedback can come in different forms, positive and negative. Both forms are impactful and help us improve. The positive feedback I like to offer others is in the form of constructive criticism.
Early on, soon after I discovered writing as a form of healing, I wanted to share. My friends were all eager about what I had to say. That is until they read my words. Not everyone is as excited about what I have to say, while others are ardent supporters. The constructive criticism offered by those who fulfilled a commitment to read my words is most valuable.
What does constructive feedback offer? A writer is able to understand her audience. It is important to know what resonates with people. She is able to reformat her message to be more effective, less confusing. We all have room for improvement and constructive criticism steers us in the right direction.
Words say a lot, while silence says nothing.
There are times however, when a friend might have good intentions, but simply doesn’t know what to say. While words tell us what we need to know, silence can show a lack of interest. And oftentimes it is within the silence we as writers will lose confidence in our ability to write.
Silence is the kiss of death for a writer.
Karen Esbenshade
Silence leads to assumptions and assumptions can paralyze the writer. As humans we tend to assume the worst. That is when a writer’s creativity can be stifled.
The silence is deafening to a writer, because it doesn’t offer any direction. Silence doesn’t give us anything to work with, nothing to grow out of. Silence is the kiss of death for a writer.
Words are like building blocks, something we can work with and helps the writer improve. We may not like what we are told or what we read, but at least they add value.
Feedback takes courage and courage is needed to grow.
Early on I offered to read another aspiring authors book, but my attempt grew silent. I would pick up her book, muster up any interest to read her words, offer a few encouraging words, and eventually lose interest all together. I did not have the courage to be honest with her. Simply put, I should have said “Your book doesn’t interest me.” That statement would have been enough.
What I would like my friends to know is I am a strong woman. Recovery is what has strengthened me. It is through my writing where I gain my strength and helps with my recovery. I plan on continuing to grow through my writing journey and I am learning how to grow by reading other people’s written words.
I am willing to be courageous and put myself out there. I am a strong woman, who has overcome a shameful past. Words will only help me, not hurt me. So please if you have taken the time to read my post offer me your words. To learn more about my writing style read Sharing Our Stories.
Leave a Reply