Navigating Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome on Your Writing Journey

Let's talk about something that doesn't get enough airtime in the world of writing: the messy, tangled ball of emotions known as self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Yeah, I said it. You know, those nagging voices in your head that whisper, "You're not good enough," or "Who are you kidding? You'll never make it."

Guess what? You're not alone. Every writer, from newbies to seasoned pros, grapples with these gremlins at some point on their journey. But here's the good news: you don't have to let them call the shots.

Understanding Self-Doubt

Let's start with self-doubt. It's like that annoying friend who just won't leave you alone, constantly second-guessing every word you write. Sound familiar? But here's the thing: self-doubt is fear in disguise, fear of failure, of not being good enough, of putting yourself out there and getting rejected. All of these feelings are rooted in a limiting belief. 

A limiting belief is a truth that we believe to be true about ourselves that is also holding us back from doing or becoming what we want. They act as invisible force fields that can hold us back. 

The good news? These limiting beliefs are workable. The next time self-doubt comes knocking, try this: acknowledge it, thank it for its input, and then respectfully reframe it into a statement that helps you to focus on what you want. For example, if self-doubt is producing the belief that “you are a terrible writer,” a reframe might be, “Every time I write, I become better and better at my craft.” 

The goal here is not to swing into toxic positivity but rather to encourage our brains to focus on expanding into what is possible instead of getting tripped up on the negative belief cycles. 

Imposter Syndrome: The Sneaky Impostor Among Us

Imposter syndrome, the phrase alone, makes most of us cringe. It's like self-doubt's evil twin, lurking in the shadows, ready to pounce when you least expect it. Imposter syndrome is that nagging feeling that you're a fraud, that any success you've had is just a fluke, and that any minute now, someone's going to expose you for the fraud you are.

But here's the truth: imposter syndrome is a liar. You are not a fraud. You are talented, you are capable, and you deserve to be here. When imposter syndrome shows up, take a step back and ask yourself if you always feel like a fraud or is it just some of the time? For most of us, imposter syndrome shows up as we continue to grow and stretch ourselves in a new area. It’s a signal that we’re growing and expanding. That’s not to say it isn’t uncomfortable, but imposter syndrome can also be an indicator that we’re headed in the right direction. 

Tools for Navigating Self-doubt and Imposter Syndrome

Tool #1:  Cultivating Self-Compassion

This one's a game-changer. Instead of beating yourself up every time you make a mistake (because let's face it, we all make mistakes), try treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would for a friend or pet.

Building more self-compassion is a muscle that can take time to develop if self-grace hasn’t been plentiful in the past. It can be easy to beret ourselves for not making the progress we want with our writing or even taking the time to sit down and write. (I’ve been there!)

The next time you start to notice negative self-talk arise, try this: close your eyes, take a deep breath, and repeat after me: "I am human. I am making progress. And that is enough." Feels better already, doesn't it?

Tool #2: Embrace Your Wins

Just as writers use writing tools for spell check and grammar, a set of tools can be built for managing doubtful emotions. It starts with embracing your wins. I'm talking about celebrating every victory, no matter how small. Sit down and write today? Celebrate. Finished a chapter? Celebrate. Got a positive review? Celebrate. Wrote a killer sentence? You guessed it, celebrate. 

Each celebration doesn’t need to require a Formula One podium level champagne spray. It can be as simple as taking a walk in the sunshine or making a cup of tea. The act of acknowledgement is the key to celebrating your progress.

So, go ahead, celebrate your wins like the rock star writer you are.

Self-doubt and imposter syndrome may be unwelcome guests on your writing journey, but they don't have to be in the driver's seat. With a little self-awareness and a frequent dash of self-compassion, you can begin to work with these feelings and keep writing.

Together, we can embrace the messy, tangled ball of emotions that is the writing life. And nothing—not fear, not doubt, not imposter syndrome—can take that away from you.