Is your workload too heavy?

Image by Stuart Bassil via Flickr

I wrote previously how physical clutter could actually cause a cluttered mind; meaning that it can be difficult to focus on a particular task when other things are weighing on your mind. Physical clutter is only one of many things that can have an impact on our ability to stay focused and reach goals. Some of those things are within our control, like a cluttered office, and some are not within our control. An example of this might be having a family member who is ill. Unfortunately, we can’t wave a magic wand and make someone feel better. Additionally, illness is not bias – it affects everyone, and usually, at the most inconvenient times.

For the things we can control, people, including myself, often take on more work and responsibility than is necessary, and therefore, causing a lot of unwarranted anxiety. Although we feel like we’re working nonstop, we’re actually doing a lot of zig and zag and not getting much done. I have realized over the years that it’s not realistic to take on everything alone, and that it’s okay to ask for help. Here are a few things that I have implemented in my life that can help reduce the workload.

1.      Staying clean and organized: Some of you might be thinking, I have kids. I can’t be clean and organized!  You might also image I’m referring to a spotless and fresh-smelling home with bright, white furniture and carpet, and whenever you enter you can hear the faint sound of a choir singing an angelic melody. Come on! I’m a mom – I know these homes only exist in magazines. Mine certainly doesn’t look like that. However, you can have a system where everything has a place (even though those things may not always be in their place). Check out my post for eliminating clutter and getting organized here. Additionally, you can have a manageable cleaning routine that reduces your workload for the long-term. Don’t let things pile up when a daily 15-minute effort can keep things clean and organized.

2.      Asking for help: If you’re like me, it’s hard to ask someone to do something when you know you can do it better or quicker. I could easily allow myself to spend each day constantly picking up after the kids, and completing simple, yet, time-consuming tasks that they are more than capable to handle. It’s not that I don’t want to teach my children responsibility. It’s just usually quicker if I do it myself. What I now realize is that they might not be able to do it as quick or as well, but they can certainly do it. Additionally, husbands are usually willing to help! If yours is like mine, he would prefer you to specifically tell him what you’d like done. I know – we shouldn’t have to ask. However, I used to think he was avoiding having to help me, but really, he just thought I didn’t want his help. Remember that your spouse cannot read your mind. If you need help, ask for it.

3.      Just say no: This is the toughest one for me to overcome. I tend to be the go-to girl in my family. Everyone likes to come to me for help or advice, which I find very flattering. However, there are times when I just don’t have the time and/or energy for the request. I’m not saying you shouldn’t help others. I’m just saying that sometimes it’s okay to say, “I would love to help, but I really don’t have time this week,” or “This isn’t a good time for me to talk. Can I call you back later?” Don’t overload yourself with “requests” to the point where you can’t take care of your own priorities. Over time, this can cause you to build resentment toward your friend or family member.

What are some tips you have to reduce clutter, become organized, or minimize the workload in your life?

Writing Inspirational Romance

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What is it about romance novels that attract readers (and when I say romance, I don’t mean erotica)? There’s something about that moment when one attractive set of eyes meet another, the description of that first accidental (or purposely) grazing of two elbows or shoulders, or – ah – the first kiss – delicate, a little passionate, and a little clumsy. It’s all about the newness of a relationship – those moments, days, and weeks leading up to the confession of those three little words, I love you.

I will admit, I’m a fan. I love reading and writing romance; however, I think it’s important to understand the purpose readers (including myself) have for enjoying them. I will begin by saying that I don’t enjoy reading just any romance novel. My love is for inspirational romance. It is one thing for a man and woman to fall in love and have a relationship under their own terms, but completely another when God is guiding the relationship.

With that said, I want to point out how important is it to make that distinction when you set out to write an inspirational romance. Your reader is most certainly looking for the passion between your two characters, but they’re looking for something more – it’s called encouragement. The message surrounding the romance is, in my opinion, just as important (probably more important) to be successful in this sub-genre. There are a few things the writer should ask themselves.

·    What positive message of encouragement am I sending? Are you trying to send a message of faith or hope? Maybe you want your reader to know they aren’t alone. Perhaps you want to outline the importance of being patient.

·    How does this encouraging message relate to Biblical or Christian principles? What scriptures in the Bible support your encouraging message?

·    Are my characters' decisions and behavior aligning with Christian values? If your characters are Christians, they should act like Christians.

My intention was not to put a damper on the romance, which I believe is a very important part of the story. After all, it’s called inspirational romance for a reason. On the other hand, just because you write romance, it doesn’t mean that all fans of romance will enjoy your story. I believe my point is, you shouldn’t try to cater your inspirational romance to everyone. This sub-genre, I believe, has a divine purpose. Straying from that might make an agent question your ability to deliver. Instead, focus on a specific audience with a strong and clear, encouraging message.

Do you enjoy reading or writing romance? Why do you enjoying reading it? Is there a particular type of romance you prefer? Why?

Why do you read?

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People read for different reasons. Some read to become smarter, some read to be informed, some read for entertainment, some read to escape, and some read because – Sally asked me to join a book club and she’s my best friend and also the club president, so I can’t let her down. This is not an all-inclusive list. The list of reasons why people read could go on forever.

I, for example, have read to gain wisdom, to search for an answer, to get an ‘A’ on a book report, to find inspiration, and because I love stories.

Why do you read? Just curious…

When you just don't feel like writing...

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As I sit lightly drumming the keys on my keyboard this morning, wondering what I’m going to write about, I realize that I haven’t been writing much of anything lately (lately meaning the last few weeks). Just a short while ago, I had no trouble plowing through a couple of pages of my work-in-progress, but lately I’m feeling bored – feeling a bunch of nothingness. This feeling makes me wonder what has caused this sudden loss of interest. Because, that’s exactly what it feels like – uninteresting.

 

Don’t get me wrong. I love to write. I’ve described it before as being very freeing. As a writer, you are limitless with opportunity for expression and creative ideas. So, why is it that we sometimes lose interest? I can state with confidence that it’s not that I’m tired of writing. I still have a desire to do it, but can’t seem to get myself back into the groove where things feel right. I also want to point out that this should not be confused with writer’s block, which means the writer can’t produce new or original ideas. Being unable and be uninterested are completely different. So, what is it then?

 

I don’t want to waste time talking about the whys. Whether it’s lack of motivation, stress, sorrow, sickness, or dare I say, laziness, every writer has days, or even weeks, when they just “don’t feel like it”. In situations like these, I can propose a few solutions that have helped me get back in the groove.

1. Do something creative. Most writers have other creative talents, whether it’s cooking, crafting, organizing, or some other artistic ability. When you’re feeling uninspired, doing something creative can help spark other creative talents again.
2. Take a break. It’s easy to become bogged down with responsibility and forget that we need some downtime. When our minds of full of everything else, it’s easy to put writing on the backburner. Even if only for a short period each day, do something that doesn’t require thinking, and just relax, not just your body, but your brain too.
3. Write. You’re probably thinking – What? Isn’t that the problem? However, the worst thing you can do when you don’t feel like writing is to stop writing. One day without writing can easily turn into two, and three, then four. Before you know it, you haven’t written anything in weeks. Even if only for 10 to 15 minutes, keep writing each day.

Do you have times when you just don’t feel like writing? What do you do to get back into the groove?

Can Fantasy Writing be too Imaginary?

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Writing in the fantasy genre can be very liberating. By definition, fantasy means imagining things that are impossible or improbable. When an entire story can be based on things that are only of the imagination, there are endless possibilities for creative ideas. I am having a lot of fun writing my YA high fantasy. It’s mystical and magical with elements of suspense and adventure – even a little romance. I love that there are no rules or limits as to the creative details that I can bring the reader. However, I am finding that you have to be careful how imaginary you get.

The story still needs to make sense to the reader. For example, it’s okay to call a tree a tree – isn’t it? I’m reading a fantasy novel right now (author will remain anonymous) that is really frustrating me. So many things are referenced with a made-up name/language, and sometimes I’m reading the entire chapter before I finally figure out what the words are referencing. I am not an expert fantasy writer, but this seems a little extreme. I don’t want my reader to be so distracted by the language that they can’t enjoy the story.

Those of you out there who read or write fantasy, what are your thoughts on the subject? Is it okay to call a tree a tree?

Synopsis Before the Manuscript?

Artwork by Leandro Bassano. Image by Peter via Flickr.

When writing a fiction work, every writer has their own method. Some begin with a spark of an idea, while others create an entire notebook containing the complete plot, character descriptions, and details concerning setting and time period. I’ve had plenty of ideas, but I’ve only written one completed novel. However, I have two more in the works, and I can’t help noticing how much more fun I’m having writing them than the first one. 

The completed work is a historical, inspirational romance, which I’m currently working to get published. I am half-way through what I would consider a young adult, high fantasy, and just beginning the second historical, inspirational romance, which is the second of a three-book series.

The idea for my completed novel began with a painting that I was asked to write an essay on in my high school arts and humanities class. The painting was of an old woman, which I found out later was by Italian artist, Leandro Bassano. The woman in the painting looked so sorrowful, and I just knew she had endure a great tragedy in her life. However, I had the power of words, and in my story, all hope wasn’t lost. 

We were asked to write one page about the women – a fictional assessment, of course. In the essay I wrote of this woman’s tragic story, but there was no space left for a conclusion. I couldn’t stop thinking of the woman who I had named, Emma, and because the painting had such an impact on me, I wanted to write a happy ending for her. I received an “A” on the essay and a lovely note from my teacher complementing my writing. That, no doubt, only fueled my interest.

I’ve always loved writing, but this was the first time I’d considered writing a book.

I didn’t begin it immediately. It wasn’t until I was in college, and already married, that the story first came to life. When I completed it a few years later, it was far from great, but nonetheless, something I was proud of and passionate about.

The main reason it took me so long to write it was my busy schedule (working and going to school full-time), but another big reason was my lack of planning. I began with only a few solid ideas and the rest was not thought through very well. I spent a great deal of time backtracking the story when I realized something wouldn’t work or didn’t flow properly. As a result, the manuscript ended up being a lot more work than it should’ve been, and not entirely enjoyable.

Recently, I was asked by an agent to come up with two additional story ideas to follow my first book in order to have a three-book series. Since I was already considering this, it wasn’t too hard to come up with a couple of ideas, however, they wanted me to write a five-page synopsis for each story in order to give them a clear idea of the plot.

I had never done this before.

 Figuring out many of the main scenes before writing them seemed like a huge challenge. However, once I finished them (it took me about three weeks), I realized it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. The best part was, I had two additional book ideas already ironed out. This made starting the second book a much more enjoyable feat.

I am curious as to how other writers begin their fiction stories. Does it come from a single idea, or weeks of planning and brainstorming? Do you know how it will end before you begin?

What say you?



Following Up with a Literary Agent

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Since I began querying agents, I have experienced three separate occurrences where the agent (or their assistant) has overlooked my material. In all three of those occurrences, I had followed up and asked for a status – and so glad I did! Following up can be the difference between getting noticed or being forgotten. You might like to think that your query or manuscript stands out so much that the agent couldn’t possibly forget it exists. You might also believe that agents are so organized that they would never misplace your material. You might even think that reading your material is high up on the agent’s to-do list. If you believe any or all of these things, then I’m afraid you’re living in a fantasy world. My material has been forgotten, lost, and low on the priority list, so I’m speaking from experience.

Now that you know the facts, how can you prevent these things from happening? You can’t – sorry, but there just isn’t a prevention method that I would recommend as effective. Spritzing your letter with perfume, using colorful paper, or writing your email subject line in bold uppercase letters or an irrelevant, catchy phrase will likely attract the wrong kind of attention. Don’t worry though, this doesn’t mean there isn’t any hope, and that you’re expected to just wait endless amounts of time wondering why you never received a reply. After a reasonable amount of time, you can follow up with the agent and ensure your material is getting the attention it deserves.

If you’ve sent a query letter or proposal, most agents specify in their submission guidelines how long you can expect to receive a reply. Unfortunately, I have noticed that nearly 50% of them don't reply unless they're interested. In this case, I would not recommend following up. The reason they don’t reply is probably because they don’t have the time or man-power to do so – just accept that they aren't interested. On the other hand, if the agent does do replies, and you have not received one in the amount of time they stated, send a follow-up. Do this by either forwarding the original email you sent, or copying and pasting the original in the body of the email after your follow-up message.

If you’ve sent a partial or full manuscript, the agent may or may not specify an expected time of reply. If they do, then you know when you should send a follow-up. If they don’t, I would recommend giving the agent 2 to 4 months before you send one – no less than 2, and no more than 4. Remember, reading an entire manuscript is much more time-consuming than reading a query letter. Keep your replies short, courteous, and to-the-point. Don’t bombard them with a bunch of questions. Simply remind them when you sent the material and ask them if it is still under review. Remember to include the original email for their reference.

Has your material ever been overlooked by an agent? Has a follow-up ever made a positive difference for you?

"No" Strikes Again!

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Another rejection arrived into my inbox a couple of days ago, and I was surprised by how little it disappointed me. Although the agent was not my top pick, she was creditable and I would’ve seriously considered representation if she’d extended it to me. It turns out that following up on an agent’s full request is very important. She’d had my manuscript for exactly three months when I decided to request a status to ensure she received it, and that it was still under review. She emailed me back the very next day stating that she didn’t remember receiving the material. I think that statement struck a nerve even more than the rejection.
 

Isn’t it funny that I’ve been waiting the last three months believing that she was taking the time to read my manuscript, and she hadn’t even noticed it in her inbox. I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt though – maybe she didn’t receive it at all. Maybe in was sent straight to her junk mail and was deleted from existence. That’s perfectly believable. Still, you want to think your query left a big enough impression that she would’ve remembered requesting it. The truth is, my story is just one of many fish in the sea. On a lighter note, she did take the time to review it on the spot, so I didn’t have to continue waiting.
 

Ultimately, she passed on it, deciding that the beginning was too slow and cliché. This statement was a little hard to swallow since I had only recently revised the entire beginning, and was very satisfied with it. It’s easy to get defensive in this situation, but instead, I stepped back and thought about it. She’s just one opinion, and although I was grateful for her response and feedback, I realized that she doesn’t speak for all agents. However, she did offer to take another look if I adjust the beginning to her liking, so I don’t plan on counting her out, and I certainly don’t want to burn any bridges. If I later receive another rejection with similar recommendations, I’ll mostly certainly consider changing it again.
 

I’m sure this post isn’t very positive, but the reason I started this blog was to track my journey to publication. In doing so, I have to tell the bad with the good. This is a realistic look at this long and stressful process, which sometimes feels like a waiting game. The bad news is, I received another “no”. The good news is, I’m not giving up. As a fellow blogger recently said to me, I’m one “no” closer to a yes!  



What Are You Waiting For?

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It’s so easy to get caught up in the excitement of having been shown interest from a literary agent. It’s also easy to ignore that they have much more to do than read our manuscript. We too often image them receiving our query letter and suddenly getting a sparkle in their eye followed by an immediate and most enthusiastic reply to our letter. Receiving that request for a full manuscript is important to an aspiring author after all. It means our letter was intriguing enough to spark their interest and create curiosity. On the other hand, it also means our manuscript has been added to their long to-do list, and, no doubt, at the very end.

The more I read and learn about the lives of agents, the more I realize their human just like me. Yes, they have feelings and they get stressed, over-whelmed, and tired. They have sickness, tragedy, and heartache. They also have annoying co-workers, difficult bosses, and impossible deadlines. They even procrastinate. Then, why is that so hard to imagine? It’s not – really. It’s just easier to get caught up in the excitement of possibly finding success. In the process of doing so we can’t help but to religiously check our email and study the “Top Ten Questions to Ask an Agent when You Receive the Call.”

When one week turns into a month, and then two and three months, we finally realize that we’ve been doing nothing but waiting and allowing precious time to pass along with other opportunities for success. I’ve waited seven months for a no before, and I’ve read where others have waited much longer for the same result. At some point I had to ask myself, “What are you waiting for?” As I thought about the answer I realized, I’m waiting for one person to determine my writing success. That’s one person with one opinion in the entire agent community. Those odds are terrible! Why am I doing that?

The conclusion? I’m not waiting anymore. I might take a break now and then, but I’m not going to sit around and wait for one agent to decide my literary future. I’m taking some control and seeking other means of success. I’m not going to stop writing stories, querying agents, and looking for opportunities to learn and grow. I have determined that success doesn’t come from an agent’s offer of representation. It comes from a writer’s effort and determination. It comes from our diligence and hard work. It certainly doesn’t come from waiting.

Are you waiting? What are you waiting for?

Waiting... Part 2

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Ironically, I’ve kept you waiting for this post, which happens to be the topic today. Just so you know, this was not intentional. My usual, very predictable, schedule took an unexpected turn last week and I received a deadline for work that felt unattainable. Normally, I’m given adequate time to complete my part of the work for a project and based on previous experiences, I wouldn’t consider my job stressful. Last week was stressful, and at times, I felt completely miserable. On top of getting the terrible deadline, our project manager took a vacation (which he certainly earned), and I was left to complete my responsibilities and take on some of his as well.

 As you can see, last week has passed, and I have obviously survived the week of chaos. Yes, I did make my deadline, and now our PM is back from vacation and things will likely go back to being “normal”. Nonetheless, last week was not normal, and on Thursday afternoon when I realized I forgot to post, I had to laugh thinking that this was the point I wanted to make. Simply put, things happen and sometimes the usually predictable can become very unpredictable and inevitably someone will be affected.

 About a month ago an agent who had already requested my full manuscript had sent me another email complimenting my story, and then requested a synopsis and author bio, which seemed a little unorthodox. Based on my research, after an agent has requested the full, read it, and liked it, the next step is usually to offer representation. Although the agent’s actions were unexpected, I still counted it as a possible victory, and decided to wait and see what happens. What else could I do?

 After four weeks though, I find myself getting a little discouraged. I’m optimistic, based on the agent’s past behavior, that if she decides not to represent me she will communicate that to me, but waiting is hard. I find myself thinking the worst. She found someone better for the slot. She forgot about me. She hates the synopsis. That’s just a few of the questions that have entered my mind. Although most of those ideas are possible, there are many more sensible reasons for the delay. I need to remind myself that she hasn’t communicated a rejection, so there’s a good chance I’m still in the running. In addition, she has multiple other authors she is managing. She can’t drop her responsibilities to them to meet my expectations. Most recently, I have found out that the company of the series I am being considered for was just bought by another company. Although there are no plans to eliminate the series, it’s still reasonable to believe there might be delays during this transition.

 The point I’m trying to make is that we all keep someone waiting, so it’s a good idea to consider that when you’re waiting on someone else. Be patient. There’s good reason behind the famous quote, “Good things come to those who wait.”

 Are you waiting on a decision from an agent? Has it been a long wait? How are you handling it?

Waiting… Part 1

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Patience. Something most of us wish we had more of. Whether it’s with our children, spouse, co-workers, or just life in general, being patience is a quality we constantly have to work at. All day long I find myself waiting. I wait on the kids to finish breakfast, pick up their toys, or finish a school assignment. I wait on co-workers to reply to my emails or join a meeting. I wait on my husband to finish that project he promised he’d get to a week ago. Now that I’m trying to find success in writing, I’m experiencing even more waiting while I wait on potential agents to reply to my queries.

 It’s hard waiting on others, and often I catch myself thinking that I deserve a quick answer or that others should meet my demands and expectations. What I tend to forget is that I don’t always meet the demands and expectations of others either. Just as I wait for others, other are waiting for me. Maybe you’re someone who always fulfills other’s requests in a timely manner. Maybe you’re always on top of your to-do list, and you’re never late for a meeting or appointment. Maybe that’s you, but that’s not me.

 Although I consider myself to be reliable and responsible, there are times when I, too, keep others waiting. We all have priorities and things we value more than others, so it’s only natural to fulfill requests and finish tasks in the order which we see fit. Unfortunately, in doing this, others have to wait on us. I try to remember this when I get frustrated, and instead of waiting, I try to do something productive. That always makes me feel better. When you think about it, why are we waiting in the first place? There’s always something we can be doing to add value and efficiency to our day.

 Do you find it hard waiting on others? What have you done to improve your patience?

Free Your Mind of Clutter



Image by Karen Cardoza via Flickr

 

Is this your office space? Is this your entire house? If so, this is probably how your mind looks as well if it were possible to flip the top of your head open and see your thoughts. Don’t worry, I’ve been there too…many, many times. It starts with a couple of sticky notes, which you’ve placed to “organize” your thoughts. Before you know it, the neat stack of papers you intended to file have now turned into a mountain, which keeps topping over and sending papers into the crack between the wall and desk. I know, I know, you have good intentions. Me too. So, why does this keep happening?  

 

If you want to be free of clutter you have to have a good system in place where it doesn’t feel like a chore to maintain it. When I worked in manufacturing we learned an organization method, originally created by the Japanese, called 5s. The five S’s stand for sort, set-in-order, shine, standardize, and sustain. It sounds simple, and that’s because it is. Allow me to break it down further. I’ll use an office space as an example.

 

·         Sort – Remove everything from your cluttered desk and begin sorting the items in three categories: keep, throw away, and put away. The keep items are things that belong in your office space: stapler, pencils, mouse pad, etc. Throw-away items are simply that, things that need thrown away: old sticky notes, junk mail, pens that won’t write, etc. Finally, the put-away items are things that you want to keep, but they don’t belong in your office space. Put those where they belong.

·         Set-in-Order – Once you’ve sorted everything and you’re left with only items that go in your office space, you need to organize them. Put all your working pens and pencils in a single spot where they’re easy to reach and won’t spill out into other areas. I have a three-drawer bin under my desk where I keep office items that I use, but not on a frequent basis. For example, CDRs, mailing labels, etc. Only put things on the surface of your desk that you use multiple times per day.

·         Shine – Now that everything is organized, you need to clean your office space. Swipe those sticky fingerprints off the computer screen, remove the dust from your desk’s surface, and sweep the area under your desk, which rarely gets attention. It will make you feel better – I promise!

·         Standardize – Your desk in now neat and clean, so now is the time to put systems in place, which will allow you to make this a standardized process. If you allow papers to collect on your desk because your filing system is unmanageable, then it’s time to fix it. If trash piles on the floor next to your feet because the only trash can is two rooms over, then buy a small trash can for your office space. If you don’t fix the underlying problems, then your cleaning an organizing efforts are only a bandage, not a long-term solution.

·         Sustain – Your systems are in place that will help you to control the clutter, so now all you have to do is maintain the process and keep it that way. This tends to be the hardest part for many of us, but a little effort each day goes a long way.

 

Although this methodology was originally created for a manufacturing setting, I’ve found that it’s very useful for any workspace. When you’re environment is cluttered, it’s hard to be productive. Clearing your mind of clutter can be as easy as clearing your desk.

 

Do you have an organization method that works for you? Please share!

 

What is Your Mini-Getaway?

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In a previous post, I mentioned that taking breaks are important for a person’s sanity. Who was I referring to? Everyone, really. My weekdays tend to get pretty methodical. I have the same routine each day. I get up, fix my husband’s lunch, make coffee, get in some writing, and then begin working (I work from home). Throughout the day, when I get chunks of time, I barrel through each subject with my nine-year old to complete his homeschooling lessons – all while meeting the needs of my melodramatic two-year old. Although I have the freedom to switch things up a little throughout the day, it usually ends the same with me feeling completely exhausted and ultimately accomplishing less than I had planned.
 

Remember when you were young, and time was so irrelevant? Some of my happiest memories during childhood were during the warm seasons, riding my bike, making mud pies, and playing with cousins on the Rock Cliff (sounds dangerous, but it was just some large boulders on our family’s property). Unless you count the last few minutes of school before the bell rang, I never paid the clock any mind. I was more concerned with my next adventure. Now that I’m an adult with real responsibilities, I sometimes feel like time takes me prisoner. Thus, the mini-getaway is born.
 

Unfortunately, I can’t dismiss my responsibilities and just have fun doing what I want, but I can take some downtime. As long as I’ve completed a few tasks on my to-do list, I don’t have to feel guilty about it either. In the spring, I love working in the yard; especially in my flower beds. There is something so relaxing about being outside where the air smells clean and fresh, and the warm sunshine can make the worst day just a little better. In the summer I like playing with the kids in the yard or finding a home project that will make my home look brighter or run more efficiently. The winter is a little tougher since the sunshine is scarce, but that’s when I do the most reading and writing. Playing hide-and-go-seek with the kids in our small 1100 square foot home is a great adventure too.
 

Whatever it is that I find to do, I try to take in every second; like I did when I was a kid. I try not to think about what is still left to do, or what I could’ve done better. I’ll have plenty of time for that when my mini-getaway is over, and I’m back to my “normal” routine. The word routine reminds me of when I was breastfeeding my newborn daughter. She had a routine all of her own, which meant her routine was also mine. One of the things I credit for staying sane and getting to enjoy my baby, amongst the everyday chaos, was feeding time.
 

 When she was hungry, it didn’t matter what I was doing, I had to stop and feed her. Because she was attached, I didn’t have the freedom to do much multi-tasking (Kudos to anyone who can do dishes while you breastfeed your child.). While the world was running laps around me, I got to look down into her beautiful face and hold her little hand and tell her how much I love her. This brings me to the conclusion that God was certainly the original inventor of the mini-getaway. If He thinks it’s important, then so do I.

What keeps you sane amongst the monotonousness of routine and the chaos of a busy day? What is your mini-getaway?
 



How Many Query Letters Should I Send at Once?

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One of many mistakes I made when I began querying agents was the idea that more is better, specifically in reference to querying multiple agents at one time. I do not agree with this concept. I have read many recommendations on the Web that by sending out 50 or more query submissions at once, an author has a better chance of getting an agent request to see more material. This concept is widely used in the direct sales industry, which makes perfect sense. If you are selling vacuum cleaners door-to-door, you are more likely to sell one if you visit 50 homes than if you only visit five. There are a few problems with using this concept for query submissions.
 

·         Your query letter lacks appeal: If you are new to querying, you need to do a test drive with your letter. I looked at many query letter samples and revised my letter multiple times before I finally got an agent’s attention. Start by submitting to four to six agents, if you get a request for more material, you know you’re doing something right. If not, you may need to revamp your letter before sending again.

·         You’re depleting your resources too quickly: If you send to 50 or more literary agents at once, depending on your form of lit and genre, you have most likely expired your list of first and secondary agent picks. If anything, you’re left with agents or agencies that are either irrelevant or not credible. If you’ve written the perfect query letter (remember: beauty is in the eye of the beholder) you have nothing to worry about, but if not, you might have just ruined your chance with those agents.

·         Your query letter doesn’t conform to the agent’s guidelines: Although, there is a standard set of information widely expected to be present in a query letter, many agents will give a list of information they are interested in seeing. If you’ve submitted to 50 or more agents in a short period, most likely you have not took the time to carefully read the agent’s guidelines, nor learn much more than their name. Like everyone else, agents want to feel special. They want to know that you took the time to learn a little about them, and were thoughtful enough to send a query that aligns with their guidelines and/or suggestions.
 

What are your thoughts on this subject? Have you ever queried a large number of agents at once? What kind of response did you get?



Targeting Your Query Letter Submissions

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Your query letter is ready to submit (at least you hope). Now comes the challenge of deciding who to send it to. The lists of literary agents seem endless, and it can be a bit overwhelming to determine who is worthy of your submission. It is important to understand that all agents don’t accept all genres. Most agencies staff multiple agents, and usually, each agent has different preferences and guidelines for query submissions. It is very important to do your research and seek agents that are compatible with your work. You can submit 100 queries, but if you send each of them to agents that aren’t interested in your form of literature or genre, you’ve wasted a lot of time and energy for nothing.
 

When seeking out compatible agents, I suggest using a creditable source for compiling your list. I have used websites such as WritersMarket or QueryTracker. You can also purchase books like the 2014 Guide to Literary Agents or 2014 Novel & Short Story Writer’s Market, both found on Amazon. Be sure to use sources that are up-to-date. Information is changing constantly, so you want to be sure you’re sending your submission to the appropriate address. Once you have obtained a source, you can start your list.
 

If you have never been published (Self-publishing doesn’t count unless you’ve sold a substantial amount. See What is the Best Way to Submit My Self-Published Book?, by Steve Laube.), you first need to seek the agents that are accepting new writers. Many agents have a full client list and are closed to new writers several months out of the year, while others only work with published authors. If an agent is accepting new writers, the next thing to look for is whether or not they are seeking your form of literature (fiction, non-fiction, short stories, poetry, etc.) and genre (romance, drama, thriller, mystery, fantasy, etc.). Depending on your form of lit and genre, this is still going to be a very large list of agents. Starting with the first 10 or so, visit each agent’s website and learn a little about the agent.
 

Agents like to know that you did your research and sought them out for a reason. You can usually find additional information about agents just by searching their name on the Web. Learn about their experience and credibility from other authors they have represented. Do they have good relationships with creditable publishers? What are their top sells? Remember, if an agent elects to represent your work, they will be your voice to the publishing community. In addition, you will have to work with this person. If they have a reputation for being difficult, you may want to think twice before querying them.
 

 During this portion of your research, you will likely narrow the list a little further, and find that you have listed agents that you consider to be your top picks (your dream agent/s), and your secondary picks (agents you’d be happy to settle with).  I would recommend submitting to four to six agents to start. Why four to six? I’ll explain my reasoning for that in my next post.
 

For now, tell me about your research strategy for targeting query submissions? Do you agree or disagree with my approach, and why?