critique submission

I made my first submission packet for VCFA the other day. I have submitted in various ways before. It continues to amaze me how each time brings its own set of nerves, anxieties and insecurities. Is the piece good enough? Am I good enough? What will others think?

I remember the first time I submitted to my critique group. While it has grown into the safest space, it might have been the scariest. This was the first time I put myself out as a children’s book writer to others who were already in profession. Not only would strangers be reading my work but also deciding whether or not I was worthy to be in their group. They did accept me and, after seven years, I now I realize I had worked myself up to quite a tizzy when these fellow writers were looking for new members and wanted to help grow and support others while they received the same support and encouragement.

But each time I prepare the packet for submission, the same feelings return in differing degrees. On positive days, I convince myself that maybe these nerves push me to make sure that my writing is better. On negative days, I doubt the entire process is worth the mental effort. Luckily the positive days are more plentiful than the negative ones.

Now I wait and wonder what my new crit group will consist of. What will I think of their writing and what will they have to say about mine. Oh the joys of putting oneself out there in the world. It is not an easy thing to do but I am told it is the best way to grow so I continue to do it.