Reader situation
You write, draw, photograph, or compose, and you have been thinking about submitting your work to a magazine, contest, or exhibition. You feel nervous about rejection. You want to take the step anyway.
Central idea
Submitting work involves choosing a piece that represents you well, matching it to the right venue, and following guidelines carefully. Rejection is common and not a judgment on your worth. Celebrating the act of submitting builds confidence for future attempts.
Practical steps
- Choose your piece. Pick work you are proud of and feel ready to share.
- Find a fitting venue. Look for publications or contests that match your style.
- Read the guidelines. Follow formatting, length, and deadline requirements.
- Polish the piece. Edit or refine before sending.
- Celebrate sending. Mark the submission as an achievement in itself.
Worked example
Fictional example
Mia had written poems for years but never shared them. She found a local literary magazine that welcomed new writers. She chose a poem about her grandmother’s garden, read the guidelines, and edited it carefully. She pressed send and celebrated with a slice of cake. Three months later, the poem was accepted, but Mia said the real milestone was sending it.
Boundaries
- Read submission terms carefully, including rights and fees.
- Keep copies of your work.
- Be patient; responses can take months.
One thing to try this week
Choose one piece this week that you might submit and look up one suitable venue.
Discussion prompt
How did you choose what to submit, and how did it feel to send it out? Share it on Collasia.
