I guess I just don't understand people. In the last week or so, I have seen and heard from a lot of people who blindly move around this world clueless and frustrated. All of this stems from a lack of asking for help.
Let me explain.
I have seen several emails on the loops out there complaining that people just will not help with judging their contests. Do they ask? No... They just whine and throw it to the wind hoping that things will work out.
People at my church do the same thing. I am constantly hearing complaints from this small group of people who "have to do all the work" or "who are always having to serve on a committee." These comments are generally followed up by complaints that no one else is doing the work.
Have they been asked?
NOPE!
Look. If you want something. Ask. The worst that will happen is someone says no. Follow that up with a "maybe later?" to leave the door open. In some cases, someone might be too busy at that time - it doesn't mean forever.
(Let's see if I can get through this this time without blogger eating the comment...)
ReplyDeleteI wonder if it's an intimidation of bothering the agents or editors about participation?
Especially if the contest is a smaller competition? The fear of "bothering" an agent or editor could prevent the contest organizers from asking at all.
I know the worst that could happen would be a "no," but rejection prevents a lot of people from doing a lot of things.
Personally, I just think people are waiting for these people to invite themselves. I have actually heard chapter conference people say that they wished these editors and agents would call them and say that they wanted to come. Huh??? We don't invite ourself.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I still have to ask, what is the fear in asking. Look, I go through the RWR and see the same names showing up time and time again. There is a huge list of editors and agents out there to provide the critique and to help out. Some are REALLY good.