Basic axioms for prospective authors I have figured out over the years-
- Either you have something that will sell, or you don't. There really isn't a lot of middle ground. However, if you do have something that will sell, it may take a while to make it.
- If publishers won't pick you up, and you are dedicated enough to see it hit bookshelves, save up, found your own publishing company and publish it yourself. If you make a decent amount of sales that way, you've got something worthwhile.
- No matter whether you get published right away, or get ten frillion rejection letters, do NOT become a prima dona.
- Flip side of that coin, don't let the snobbery that comes from some corners discourage you, either.
- Listen to valid and constructive criticism, ignore the snark and snottiness. You'll know which critiques have value and which don't by whether they improve your craft, or just tear you down.
- Never be afraid to dream, but also never be afraid to take advice and learn new ways to shape that dream into the words on paper.
