From Edie: Dreaming of publication but facing setbacks? Discover how to keep writing through rejection, delays, and detours—and stay encouraged as your publishing journey unfolds in the right timing.
The Timing of Your Publishing Dream: How to Keep Writing Through Setbacks and Detours
by Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes @KHutch0767
I’ve always dreamed of working in publishing full-time and being a very successful mermaid, but that’s a whole other story. From the moment I first held a new book in my hands, with crisp, colorful pages and words I couldn’t read, I imagined a life surrounded by stories, ideas, and the people who bring them to life. Yet the path to that dream has been anything but straightforward. In fact, it took years of many wrong turns, “no’s,” setbacks, and even falls to arrive where I am today. And truthfully, the journey isn’t over. Each day brings new challenges and new opportunities to grow.
Looking back, I realize that the timing of our dreams is rarely linear. There are seasons when everything aligns, and there are seasons when doors close repeatedly, sometimes painfully. For me, there were jobs that didn’t fit, opportunities that slipped away, and countless “almosts” that left me questioning whether my dream was realistic, achievable, or even worth it. Despite the challenges, I kept moving forward in whatever ways I could.
Starting Small: Planting Seeds Early
While working as a teacher, I took on a leadership role as head of our writing committee. I ran newsletters, coordinated contests and student publications, and found joy in guiding others through the writing process. Those early experiences were my first taste of editorial work and taught me how to organize, refine, and celebrate written content.
Even while balancing teaching and administrative responsibilities, I sought opportunities to expand my skills. I served as an associate editor for local magazines, contributing content and helping shape stories, while still wearing my educator’s hat. Those were long, busy days, but each small step was part of a larger journey toward my dream.
The Many Roles Along the Way
Over time, I branched out in ways I couldn’t have imagined when I first started. I began as a writer, creating content, exploring storytelling, and learning the craft. I wrote and directed plays for my students and for the church. I slowly moved into editing, first as a volunteer and then professionally, honing my eye for detail and deepening my understanding of what makes a manuscript truly shine. I launched a podcast to discuss books and publishing and to connect with authors, agents, and readers. Now, I have the incredible privilege of working as a publisher, helping other writers bring their visions to life.
Yet even now, I face challenges. Setbacks are part of the process, and I still encounter “no’s” and missteps. Each one is a reminder that growth often comes disguised as obstacles. Our dreams are rarely delayed by a lack of talent. They’re delayed because life is complex, and timing is everything.
Five Ways to Pursue Your Publishing Dreams
For those juggling day jobs, families, careers, and other obligations, the dream of working in publishing full-time can feel distant. But it’s possible to make meaningful progress without giving up everything else. Here are five practical strategies that have helped me and can help you too:
1. Start small and stay consistent.
Even 15 minutes a day spent writing, reading, or learning about publishing adds up. Your small, consistent efforts, whether drafting a newsletter, reviewing manuscripts, or connecting with authors, compound over time.
2. Use what you already know.
Your current skills are valuable. If you’re an educator, administrator, marketer, or manager, you already have tools for publishing: organization, communication, and project management. Don’t underestimate the power of leveraging what you’ve mastered.
3. Build your network with intentionality.
Relationships open doors. Join writing groups, attend conferences or online events, or connect with fellow professionals on social media. These connections can lead to freelance opportunities, collaborations, or mentorship, often when you least expect it.
4. Embrace side hustles in your field.
Freelance editing, blogging, podcasting, or contributing to newsletters can all provide hands-on publishing experience. These side projects may start small, but they build credibility, expand your portfolio, and keep your dream alive while honoring your current obligations.
5. Reframe setbacks as stepping-stones.
Rejection, missteps, and failed projects are inevitable. Every “no” is an opportunity to learn, adjust, and grow. A growth mindset, treating each obstacle as part of the journey rather than a dead end, is one of the most powerful tools you can cultivate.
Trust the Process
Truthfully, our dreams rarely unfold exactly as we expect. For me, publishing wasn’t an immediate career leap. It was a gradual climb built on years of small steps: leading committees, running newsletters, editing local magazines, podcasting, and learning at every turn. Each “wrong” turn, each setback, was preparing me for the opportunities I have now.
Your dream doesn’t need to wait for the perfect moment. Start where you are. Take consistent, realistic steps. Leverage your current skills. Build connections. Above everything, trust that the timing of your dream is unfolding exactly as it should.
When you finally reach your goal, whether it’s publishing full-time, launching your first book, or becoming an editor or publisher, you’ll realize the journey itself shaped you into the creative professional you were meant to be. And that timing, with all its delays and detours, was part of the beauty.
Oh, and I’m still working on the mermaid thing. As I said, that’s another story.
TWEETABLE
AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), and AASA (American Association of School Administrators). She serves on the nonprofit organization Submersion 14 board and the 540 Writer’s Community board and is an art instructor for the nonprofit organization Light for the Future. Katherine hosts the podcast Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality. She has authored a Christian Bible study for women and is currently working on the sequel to her first general market thriller novel. Her thriller A Fifth of the Story will debut in February 2024 through Endgame Press.
Katherine flourishes in developmental editing and coaching writers. She has a twenty-year career in education, leadership, and journalism. Katherine freelances as an educational consultant for charter schools, home school programs, and churches. In this role, she has written and edited curriculum, led program development, and helped manage growth facilitating and public relations. She also works as an editor and book coach through her consulting business. Katherine provides skill, accountability, and professionalism so clients can begin, develop, and finish their writing projects for publication.
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