You Still Haven't Fill-in-the-Blank?
On the surface, it's an innocent enough question. And don't get me wrong. I'm not dissing the genuine interest of others about my writing journey. In fact, it shows care and concern from my loved ones. So why do those 4 simple words wallop me like a jab to the kidneys?
Because I, like every other writer on the face of planet earth, know what's coming after that question is answered. It's always followed by another...
You still haven't been published?
You still haven't heard from Publisher X?
You still haven't finished that book?
You still haven't gotten an agent?
You still haven't made it to the NY Times Bestseller list?
The definition of insanity (according to Albert Einstein) is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting the same results. You know those questions are coming, so this year, writers, let's be proactive.
Share an interesting bit of research you've uncovered.
An engaging tidbit of information oftentimes turns the conversation onto a whole new direction. And who knows...you just may have found someone who can add to your knowledge base on that particular subject.
Prepare a fun and snappy comeback.
You don't have to feel defeated because you "still haven't." Lighten up the situation with a quippy reply. Don't just grin and bear it. Yuk it up.
Flip it.
No, not your finger. Flip the question back to the questioner. Be honest and admit you haven't whatever-they-asked, then ask them if they've accomplished one of their goals yet. Only use this tactic, however, if you really care, otherwise you're going to come off as a sour-grapes connoisseur.
Remember, 'tis the season to be jolly, not crabby. Instead of cringing in the corner at the next holiday gathering, go out there and have fun!