You don’t need to tackle revisions alone—let’s bring your story back to life together.
Over the years, I’ve worked with many authors who’ve shared a similar story: a manuscript they once believed in was shelved after receiving feedback that made them question its worth. It’s a tough place to be, especially when the manuscript in question is one you poured your heart into.
As an editor, I don’t see my role as being a gatekeeper of what “works” and what doesn’t. My job is not to tear a manuscript apart just because I can find areas to improve. Instead, I see my role as a guide, someone who will help you shape your story to align with the vision you have in your head and heart. I’m here to make your manuscript the best it can be, without losing what makes it uniquely yours.
But for that to happen, you need to do something brave.
I want you to open that drawer—yes, that one. The drawer with the manuscript you love but feel too afraid to look at again. The one you set aside after that critique shook your confidence. It’s time to take it out, dust it off, and give it another shot.
How to Revisit Your Shelved Manuscript
Revisiting a project after difficult feedback can be daunting, but here are a few steps to ease yourself back into it:
- Start by rereading without judgment: Approach your manuscript with fresh eyes, just as a reader would. This will help you gain perspective and identify what still resonates with you.
- Pinpoint what excited you originally: Revisit the core idea or character that first inspired you to write. Rekindling that passion can help refocus your revisions.
- Make notes on your first read-through: Jot down your immediate thoughts, both positive and negative, without diving into changes just yet. Then, take a moment to acknowledge the parts of your manuscript that are working well.
- Seek support from fellow writers: Surrounding yourself with others who understand the challenges of writing can be invaluable. Joining a local writing group or connecting with an online community can provide the encouragement and accountability you need to move forward. Plus, participating in group sessions can inspire new ideas and perspectives. If you’re looking for support, you can join my free online writing sessions, where writers come together to work on their projects and ask questions. (I send the details through the newsletter, but if you’re not already a subscriber, you can sign up here.)
The Power of Diverse Feedback
Remember that feedback from different editors or readers can vary significantly. Some may focus on one area of improvement, while others emphasize something else entirely. While feedback is essential, don’t let it override your passion for the project. You know your story better than anyone, so trust your judgment and keep the essence of your work intact.
Resources to Support Your Self-Editing Journey
If you’ve reread your manuscript but aren’t quite ready to share it again yet, I recommend checking out my guide to self-editing, in which I provide practical tips to help you refine your manuscript yourself. This series offers useful strategies for tackling common editing challenges and making sure your revisions align with your vision.
And when you do feel ready, I will still be here. We can work on your manuscript together, with grace, trust, and a gentle approach. You don’t have to do this alone, and you don’t have to fix everything before reaching out. In fact, these manuscripts are often where the most beautiful growth happens.
So be brave.
Let’s work together to bring your story back to life.
If you’re ready to take that next step with your manuscript, just submit a contact request. Let’s chat about how I can help you bring your project to its full potential.
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