Saturday, July 09, 2005

What she said

Isn't it human nature to side with someone who feels the same way as you? Say there are two opinions. One is WITH you, the other...not so much.
The word of the day is objectivity.
I admit, I have a hard time with this in my writing. I LOVE to write. I LOVE what I do.
And every once in awhile, when something is pointed out that needs to be changed, I tend to act like a rebellious thirteen-year old. "It's fine. So and so's editor let THEM get away with it. Why do THEY get to do that, and I don't? All my other writing friends are doing it."
I'm not talking about my editor. I'm simply talking about opinions in general.
What I do is simple. I give it space and time. And when I've calmed down enough to see straight and not act like an ass, I look at it objectively. If the opinion is valid, then I change it. If it's not, then I keep my words without changing them. But I have to LOOK at the opinion before I can see if there is a change needed. And many times, it's just what I need. Quite humbling, that.
No one in my little circle of friends off the Internet is able to give me the kind of help I'm looking for. And so I pester my lovely writing friends on the 'net, and pick their brains. Or pick something up from their website or blog. Invaluable.
And even if I don't agree with something at first, I take the second look. And I see the opinion for what it's worth...a valuable commodity. And I appreciate it.
Grins*

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Exactly. You take what works for you and leave out the rest. I try to do the same.

Regina Avalos said...

Everyone has an opinion it seems. When it comes to my writing, if someone makes a suggestion and actually shows what they mean from somewhere in my work, I generally listen. If they just make a general statement, I tend to not listen.

Beth Ciotta said...

Most of the time I don't have a problem with constructive critisim. The key word being 'constructive'. :) Sometimes I agree, sometimes I don't, sometimes I can be pursuaded. Looking over or considering a suggestion or opinion a second time is always wise I think.

Anonymous said...

Opinions are good, then go with your gut.

Anonymous said...

I definitely think time is good when deciding whether or not to change something. And that objectivity that's so hard to come by!

Anonymous said...

I'm with everyone else. If the opinion is valid and constructive, I'm fine with it. But there have been times when I've even disagreed with Suzanne. *g*

Unknown said...

I'm the same way. I look at it. Then step away. Then look at it again. And I always go with my gut.

Unknown said...

I'm the same way. I look at it. Then step away. Then look at it again. And I always go with my gut.

Crystal* said...

Thank you ALL for your opinions. I'm glad the overwhelming comment was to "go with my gut." That's my usual feeling, but I think I was needing a little reinforcement. Thanks again!
Grins*