Have you ever gotten a bad review? My favorite character, Carrie Bradshaw, so pointedly said, “It takes only one bad review to cancel out all the good word?”. Whether it is negative feedback that is said or written about something we created or directly about ourselves it hurts. As children we learn sticks and stones may break our bones but words may never hurt us but sometimes they really do hurt our feelings. It is a painful experience that I have endured many times but recently I have found a positive lesson from it.
Even before I became an author I have been criticized on multiple occasions and through my own healing work I have learned that it is typically other people projecting their insecurities on me. It is not fair but it does happens. I have made a choices to seek people that will support me and respect me for who I am. As an author, reviews are a very crucial part of developing credibility while it also opens to the door to both positive and negative energy. Earlier this year I submitted one of my books to a service to receive a review. My choice to pursue this option was based on a business decision to build credibility as consumers and libraries value this establishment’s reviews. I waited eagerly for this review and the possibility of obtaining their coveted star! When I received the review, I feel to tears. The reviewer gave a summary of my book, sprinkled in some positive feedback, and then criticized my illustrations. I doubted the credibility of my art and was especially wounded by their impression of the illustration that I put my heart into. My next step was to forward the review to my marketing strategist, Melanie. I knew if anyone could find a positive twist in this review it would be her! And yes, she knew exactly what to say and do. She pointed out that there were positive lines in the review of my book. Furthermore, she reminded me that art is subjective and can easily trigger others. Most importantly she reminded me that I am aware of my capabilities and strengthens as an artist. Sometimes we need help from a friend to see the positive side of situation and to remind us that some people feel entitled to say whatever is on their mind. Although a day later, I received a review for the same book on Amazon and these opening sentences warmed my heart.
As Carrie Bradshaw also said, “That’s the thing with reviews. Sometimes you get a good review when you least expect it!”
From this experience I have learned that it necessary to have a support group with you on this journey. As someone who both writes and illustrates their books, designs all the coloring drawings and toys, and is the face of their brand, I have chosen to put myself in a vulnerable position. Not everyone will like my work nor agree with my choices but I pray that they will respect both me and my work. I try not to read reviews for my books as it can be difficult to ignore the negative feedback. On the other hand when I write reviews for other authors I strive to show them the same respect that I crave for myself. Although, I am glad I happened to read the review from this reader when I received it. His kind words truly made my day and overruled the doubts I had in my work.
Love Always,
Kristina Lucia xoxo