Thick Skin Development in Fiction Writing: Building Emotional Resilience in the Face of Harsh Critiques
By Olivia Salter
In fiction writing, "thick skin" refers to the ability to accept feedback—especially harsh or critical feedback—without becoming overly discouraged or defensive. Developing this emotional resilience is essential for writers who want to grow and improve their craft. Here's how thick skin development applies to fiction writing:
1. Distinguishing Between Critique and Personal Attack
It's crucial for writers to recognize that critique is usually about the work, not the individual. Harsh comments can sometimes feel personal, but understanding that feedback is meant to improve the story helps writers avoid taking criticism to heart.
2. Valuing Constructive Feedback
Writers need to learn to filter out what’s useful. Not all critiques are equal—some offer insightful advice that can sharpen plotlines, deepen characters, or improve pacing. Developing thick skin helps a writer focus on what can enhance their story instead of getting bogged down by negativity.
3. Avoiding Emotional Overwhelm
Criticism can sting, especially when a story is close to a writer’s heart. Emotional resilience allows a writer to acknowledge that sting without letting it derail their creative progress. This keeps them from abandoning a project simply because someone didn’t like it.
4. Building Long-Term Confidence
Every writer will face negative reviews, rejections, and critiques. Those who develop thick skin will be better equipped to persist. They can continue writing and submitting work, confident that critiques are a natural part of the growth process.
5. Maintaining Creative Integrity
While thick skin allows writers to absorb feedback, it also helps them maintain their own voice. Writers with emotional resilience can take suggestions without feeling pressured to change their work in ways that don’t align with their vision.
6. Using Critiques as Learning Opportunities
Writers with thick skin learn to see critiques as a way to refine their skills. Instead of feeling demoralized by harsh words, they use them as fuel to improve, making their work stronger with each iteration.
Building thick skin is a gradual process that comes with experience, but it’s one of the most valuable traits for a fiction writer. It helps them not only survive the ups and downs of creative feedback but thrive in a challenging industry.
