5 Things to Do While Waiting for a Book Deal (Or Waiting in General)
Recently, I came across a fellow writer’s post that said, “Publishing is a long process.” I can absolutely attest to that! Right now, I’m working on a new book proposal that’s been nearly a year in the making. Some people ask, “Courtnaye, why not just self-publish? Why wait so long?” My response is simple: Because this is a dream worth waiting for.
Waiting for a book deal can be long and hard —but I’m here for it! Years ago, at a writer’s conference, a speaker said something that stuck with me: “You can do hard and holy things.” I believe that with all my heart. I even keep a coffee mug, coaster, and bookmark with that reminder close by. And you know what? You can do hard and holy things too.
I have to encourage myself daily throughout this process. Because there are so many revisions that will try to drive you crazy! Rewrites. Edits. Highs and lows. Ups and downs. Sheesh!
And let me tell you. This is not my first rodeo! A few years back, while working on a completely different proposal, I heard it all: “We’ll pass.” “She needs a bigger platform.” “We already have something similar.” Have you ever heard feedback like that before?
After months of this, I finally told my agent I needed to step back for a while. The rejections were tough enough, and I had no idea I was about to walk through one of the hardest seasons in my life. Writing a full manuscript in the middle of that would’ve been a total hot mess! God knew.
Fast forward —well, it didn’t feel fast to me —but nearly a year ago, I signed with my literary agent and stepped back into the traditional publishing journey. Since then, I’ve written two different book proposals, rewritten chapters, and revised the proposal more times than I can count. More than once I’ve prayed, “Lord, I’m really trying not to grow weary in this process. Help me please.”
With that said, I want to encourage you as I encourage myself with 5 Things to Do While Waiting for a Book Deal.
5 Things to Do While Waiting for a Book Deal:
- Don’t Stop Believing – If God has called you to write a book proposal and pursue the traditional publishing route, hold onto that calling. Trust that He can work in and through you. The process may feel tough but keep pressing forward.
- Worship While You Wait – Turn on some worship music. It can be upbeat or slow. Lift your voice and sing. Praise God for who He is and for what He’s already doing in your writing journey. Your worship declares your trust that He can bring your publishing dream to life.
- Expect Delays – Traditional publishing often moves slowly. Agents may be quiet, editors take time to decide, or life and holidays pause the process. Don’t be surprised, because delays are a part of the journey.
- Reject Rejection – As a marketing professional, I’ve had to learn that rejection is a part of doing business. One day as I was out doing street team marketing for a local event and handing out flyers, my sister said, “I don’t know how you can take rejection like that and just keep moving on to the next person.” I responded, “I’ve learned to reject rejection, because someone will eventually want it.”
- Don’t Compare – This is easier said than done, especially when social media constantly shows other women celebrating book deals while you’re still waiting. Remember: God has good plans in store for you. So focus on your journey, trust His timing, and don’t let comparison steal your hope or peace. If you struggle with comparison, grab my FREE eBook, entitled Compare Not: Conquering Comparison in Today’s Competitive Culture.
Can I just say that I am grateful for it all! Every twist and turn on this journey to traditional publishing has been a learning experience. It’s stretching my faith and testing my patience for sure, but in the best way. Sometimes I get those ah-ha moments, like, “Oh, that’s why that took so long!” or “Ah, now I see why that had to happen this way.” It might be a long road, but I truly believe it will be worth the wait.
And friend, whatever it is you are waiting for today (a book deal or something altogether different), may I be a whisper in your ear saying, “The wait is worthwhile. Hang in there!” As you wait, give my five tips a try. They apply to so many other life situations and will help you grow gratitude–even when the wait seems painfully long and full of hard work.
Meet Courtnaye Richard
Courtnaye Richard is the founder of Inside Out Worldwide 501(c)3, a ministry that helps thousands of women around the world grow in Christ, while equipping them for their calling as we await His return. She is also an author, contributing writer for Christianity.com, iBelieve.com, and a YouVersion Bible App Partner. Her podcast Inside Out with Courtnaye is in the Top 5% for listenership for Christian Women. Her speaking appearances include She Speaks, FlourishWriters, and Entrusted Women’s Conference, just to name a few. Courtnaye is also the founder of Inside Out Media Group, LLC – a faith-based PR, Marketing & Mentorship Agency. In her 15+ years of experience, she has worked with platforms such as PBS, CBN, TCT, Yahoo, including local television and print publications. To learn more, you can visit www.courtnayerichard.com.
Where to find her . . .
- Compare Not: Conquering Comparison in Today’s Competitive Culture (FREE resource)
- Website
Begin Within is a series to inspire a year-round lifestyle of gratitude that will impact not only your own life, but the lives of your neighbors as well. Gratitude is a theme we talk about often around here because it ties so closely into other missional living rhythms. Practicing gratitude reminds to keep our hearts soft and expectant and our eyes open. Therefore, the more we embrace gratitude, the easier it becomes to truly see our neighbors and where we can join what God is already doing in our neighborhoods.
If you would like to contribute to Begin Within, you can find the submission guidelines here.
