How to Ask for Feedback (Without Losing Your Confidence)
Learn how to ask for writing feedback, process it like a pro, and use it to grow—without letting criticism crush your creativity.
Hey there!
Reginaldo Osnildo here again.
You’ve written your story. You’ve even edited it. Now there’s just one thing
left to do before you call it done:
Ask for
feedback.
(Gulp.)
I know, I
know—this part can feel scary. You’re handing over something personal,
something you worked hard on, and you’re asking someone to judge it.
But here’s
the truth: constructive feedback is one of the most powerful tools for
growing as a writer—as long as you know how to handle it.
Let me show
you how to ask for feedback without fear—and use it to become a better writer,
not a more insecure one.
Why
Feedback Is So Important
No matter
how good your story feels to you, you’re too close to it. You know the
backstory. You hear the characters in your head. You fill in gaps the reader
might not catch.
A fresh set
of eyes helps you:
- Spot
what’s unclear or confusing
- Notice
pacing or plot issues
- See how your story feels
to someone else
- Grow your confidence (yes,
really)
Who to
Ask for Feedback
Not all
readers are created equal. Choose someone who is:
- Honest
but kind
- Familiar with the type of story
you're writing
- Willing to give specifics, not
just “I liked it” or “It’s fine”
- Ideally,
someone who reads fiction
Pro tip: Ask a fellow beginner or a trusted
reader friend. Writing groups (online or in person) are great too!
What to
Ask For (Be Specific!)
Don’t just
say: “What do you think?”
Instead, guide them with questions like:
- Did
anything confuse you?
- Were there parts that felt too
slow or too fast?
- Did you connect with the main
character?
- Was
the ending satisfying?
- Did any lines stand out to
you—good or bad?
This helps
your reader focus on what matters and gives you actionable insight.
How to
Handle Feedback Without Falling Apart
Here’s the
big one. Receiving criticism takes practice and perspective. Here’s how to
survive (and thrive):
1. Don’t
React Right Away
It’s okay
to feel a little defensive or emotional. Just don’t respond from that place.
Take a breath.
2. Look
for Patterns
If one
person says something, it’s just an opinion. If three say the same thing… take
a closer look.
3. Keep
What Helps, Discard the Rest
Not all
feedback is right for your story. You’re the writer. You get the final
say.
4. Thank
the Reader—Always
Even if you
don’t agree with their notes, they took the time to read your work. That
matters.
Turning
Feedback Into Revisions
Now take
what you’ve learned and go back to your story. Look for:
- Weak
spots you can strengthen
- Emotional
beats you can expand
- Dialogue that can be more
natural
- Pacing that needs tightening or
breathing room
Feedback
isn’t just about fixing flaws—it’s about growing your voice and learning
your strengths.
✍️ Feedback Challenge
Ready to
take the leap?
- Choose a story or scene you’ve
written.
- Ask one person you trust
to read it.
- Give
them 3 focused questions.
- Reflect on their answers before
making changes.
It’s one of
the bravest—and most rewarding—steps you can take as a writer.
🎁 Want More Support on Your Writing Journey?
If asking
for feedback feels intimidating, don’t worry—you’re not alone. That’s why I
created:
👉 The Basics of Creative Writing for
Those Who Have Never Written Short Stories or Novels
This eBook
is designed to walk you through every stage of the writing process, from idea
to polished story. You’ll learn how to:
- Write
with confidence
- Edit
without fear
- Ask for feedback—and use it to
grow
- Actually finish your first
short story (yes, really!)
So go
ahead. Share your story. Listen. Learn. And keep writing.
You’ve got
this.
See you in
the next article!
— Reginaldo Osnildo