Welcome to Joy Ride, a monthly dose of joy, good things, creativity prompts, and gratitude by writer Jennifer Chen. If you like it, please share this newsletter with someone who might like it too.
Your Pep Talk
Last week, I had a terrible day. I spent two months interviewing for a kids/pets staff writer position at the New York Times Wirecutter (a dream gig!). I found out I didn’t get the gig after 7 interviews and an edit test.
Let me tell you self-doubt came in to tell me everything I did wrong, but instead of keeping it to myself, I shared it on social media. Why? Because I think too often we only see the successes. The great days. The kindness that came back to me helped me to realize that the decision not to hire me was not indeed as personal as it felt.
Old me would’ve cried and sulked in silence. But instead, people came to share their stories hunting for a job in this market. Or to simply say I was good enough. They encouraged me to continue.
In return, I’m here to tell you that if you’re having a terrible day, month, or year, you’re not alone. So many people are feeling it. Please don’t suffer in silence. Reach out. Drop me a line. If you’d like some community, I highly recommend Heart Broken Anonymous, a wonderful virtual support group for anyone.
My Latest News
I interviewed authors Emiko Jean and Yulin Kuang about writing in different genres for Writer’s Digest. The feature story will be in the January/February 2025 issue.
You can preorder my next book, Hangry Hearts, from Barnes & Noble for 25% off. If you are a Premium or Rewards member, use the code PREORDER25 by July 17.
I’ll be signing books at the Burbank Book Festival on August 10 at 11am. Hope to see you there!
Check Out This...
STANDUP SPECIAL: Outstanding: A Comedy Revolution and Crazy Good (Netflix). Outstanding is part history of the LGBTQ+ community and part comedy special with some of the greats, like Wanda Sykes. Crazy Good is a new comedy routine from Neal Brennan who did a brilliant set on dealing with depression that I loved. I put on this special on my terrible day and it made me laugh out loud.
COMIC STRIP: For a feel-good story, check out this Fake Pan comic about a pediatrician and his patient. If you’re on Instagram, I recommend following The Fake Pan for fantastic stories.
ORGANIZATION: My family and I are volunteering at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank this weekend to help assemble food packages for over 29,000 families, older adults, and children who face food insecurity in Los Angeles County. Please support their amazing work!
I'm Grateful For...
This note I found in my lunchbox. I’m spending this week at the Huntington Library to continue my research on Chinatowns in California for a novel. My husband and kids packed a lunch for me, and I found this note. I smiled as I ate my lunch. I hope this sweet note brightens your day too!
I love that you shared the bad news the way you so often share the good, and I especially love the message therein—that when you share, people open up to you. It's how we build community and that's so important. XO
It's hard sometimes to imagine someone as accomplished and gifted as you ever feeling self-doubt. I'm sorry you didn't get the NYT position (their loss!), but that just creates more space for you to connect with the gig that's perfect for you. Bon courage!