The Art of Patience:

The Consequences of Rushing Your Manuscript

I was working with an editorial client who requested a 10-page critique. They were already submitting the book to agents, but were getting a lot of rejections. Luckily, this author did the smart thing. Instead of exhausting their list of agents hoping someone would “love it enough to want to fix it” they sought help.

Upon reviewing the manuscript, it was clear from the first few pages that it was far from submission ready. This brings me to today’s topic: the value of patience in writing and the publishing process. Anybody who has written a book or submitted one to an agent or editor knows there’s nothing quick about the process.

In today’s competitive and crowded landscape, making sure your book is as polished as possible is crucial. The excitement of completing a manuscript can be overwhelming, and it’s tempting to rush to submit it. However, doing so can lead to missed opportunities for refinement and long-term success. Keep in mind, you only get one bite at the apple. Most agents won’t allow you to resubmit after you edit, unless they specifically request it. So ensuring you’ve done everything possible to make your book the best it can be is key.

Thinking you just need to “get it out there” or you’re tired of looking at it and just want to move onto something new, isn’t the right mindset. Put the manuscript away for a few weeks. Work on something new. Get some distance. Let your eyes and mind reset. It’s similar to the way painters flip their paintings. They don’t look at them for a while and when they turn them around, they can see where improvements need to be made—it’s the same for your book.

Consider seeking feedback from professional beta readers or a strong writing group. Fresh perspectives can highlight issues you might have missed and provide valuable insights. Hiring an experienced professional developmental editor can also make a significant difference, offering a critical eye that can elevate your manuscript to the next level.

Additionally, conducting market research during this time can be incredibly beneficial. Understanding the current trends in your genre, what themes and topics are resonating with readers, and what successful books in your category are doing can inform your revisions and positioning –which can also help you write a strong query letter.

Moreover, use the time to improve your craft through workshops, writing groups, and reading widely within your genre.

Embrace the art of patience. By not rushing the submission process, you give your manuscript the best possible chance of success.

Most of all, enjoy the process. The journey to publication is just as important as the destination.