Editing can, at times, feel like the creepy, saliva-dripping, skin bubbling monster hiding in your closet and wait to jump and bite your hand off when you least expect it.
But, it isn't.
I teach a lot of English classes, and whenever the subject of editing comes up, mostly the students just want you to fix things and give them a grade. The eyes glaze over, and should you dare to ask for multiple drafts, you will be lucky to get them. Or, for that matter, to get drafts and finals that are significantly different.
Here's the thing, editing can be scary. I know a midlist author who regularly throws out huge chunks of text, chapter-long sometimes, and rewrites it from scratch. But editing is not a punishment. It's a way to make your work better, to hand over the best possible piece of writing that you are capable of, no relying on spellcheck or others to fix the problems.
With editing, there is pride. Tell yourself, "I can do this. I can see what doesn't work for this story, and I can make it better." And then you do.
It won't be easy--as the elusive "they" always says, the best things in life never are--but it is something you do to help yourself.
And seriously, if an editor has to choose between two stories with great plot and characterization, they're going for the one that's written better, the one that tied up the random plot thread, not left it to dangle over the climax of the story, distracting everyone.
You can do this.
You can.
