Writer's Problems: How To Deal With Online Criticism

     If you're a writer then you're a sensitive soul. That's a good thing as it makes you sensitive to all of your characters: their reasons for doing the things they do whether good or bad. But being sensitive also means that sometimes you can take criticism hard. Like a stab in the gut hard... Especially from strangers. But I have some tips that may help make you grow harder skin.

Critics from my first chapter of "In the Dragon's Keep"...
They felt like attacks...

 1. Have A Good Cry About It...

       I don't mean actually cry about it but if it makes you feel better then go ahead. Do things that make you feel good like watch your favorite show, listen to your favorite music, read your favorite books, or even write down your feelings. Do anything to clear your mind before you go back to reading the comments to approach them with a clear mind and detachment.

2. Take Criticism to a Point...

      When you publish online you're opening yourself up to criticism. Uploading to YouTube or tweet on Twitter strangers can say whatever they want even hurtful things. You're never braver when you're faceless online. The smart thing would not to read the comments but when you're a writer you'll want to. Some will offer constructive criticism. Recently many have critiqued my first chapter of "In the Dragon's Keep" on Literotica. 

     How I deal with those is I look for those that complain about the same thing about the story then work on that. But some will just say "It's awful." or "It's too simplistic." Those who don't give explanation aren't worth giving thought to. If they don't like it or don't get it then screw them.

3. You're Writing For You Not For Them...

     Someone suggested an editor (which are available on Literotica) but I feel like that would hinder me more or would make me second guess myself too much. I write my stories for me. If others happen to like them great but if they don't too bad. Writing starts with confidence and enthusiasm. If you write with those 2 qualities then it will translate into your story. At any rate if the website you publish to allows you can disable the comments and continue publishing in blissful ignorance. 

    I want to be a published author so I need the criticism. But I feel like my skin is hardening just a bit so I can better deal with rejection and harsh criticism.