HOW TO INCORPORATE FEEDBACK WITHOUT LOSING YOUR VOICE
Greetings, writers! Receiving editorial feedback is an essential part of the writing process, but it’s important to incorporate suggestions without losing your unique voice. Here’s how you can do that effectively…
Understand the Feedback – Take time to fully understand the feedback you receive. If something isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask your editor for clarification. Understanding the rationale behind their suggestions can help you make informed decisions.
Evaluate Each Suggestion – Not all feedback will resonate with you, and that’s okay. Evaluate each suggestion carefully and consider how it aligns with your vision for the story. It’s important to make changes that feel right to you. The key is to remain open-minded.
Trust Your Instincts – You know your story better than anyone else. Trust your instincts when deciding which feedback to incorporate. If a suggestion doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to politely decline it.
Maintain Your Unique Voice – Your voice is what makes your writing special. When incorporating feedback, ensure that any changes you make still reflect your unique style and tone. If a suggestion feels out of character for your or your character’s voice, look for alternative ways to address the issue.
Find a Balance – Editing is a balancing act. Strive to find a middle ground where you can address the feedback while maintaining your creative integrity. Sometimes this means compromising, but other times it means standing firm on what you believe is best for your story.
Communicate with Your Editor – Open communication with your editor is key. Discuss any concerns you have about their feedback and work together to find solutions that satisfy both of you. Remember that your editor has extensive experience in the marketplace and wants your manuscript to succeed as much as you do. A good editor will respect your voice and help you enhance it.
Incorporating editorial feedback is a collaborative process. By remaining open-minded and flexible while staying true to your voice and vision, you can create a picture book that is both polished and authentically yours.
