Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Writer

Have you ever doubted yourself as a writer? Been afraid that you would be called out as being a fraud playing at being a writer despite the evidence in front of you of actually having written something?

Do you diminish your work or dismiss your achievements as being nothing but luck and that you are undeserving of the success you have earned?

You're not alone.

Whether they have been able to put a name to it or not, all writers have at one point experienced imposter syndrome. 

What is imposter syndrome? It's that voice that is lodged somewhere in the back of your mind that you can't remove no matter how much you try telling you all sorts of bad things like you're underserving of the success you've gained or that you are simply bashing buttons on the keyboard instead of creating the art that you are. 

Unfortunately, It's near impossible to banish this little parasite from our minds, but there are a few ways we can quiet its insistent chatter. 

Embrace Your Unique Voice and Perspective 

Sure you may write science fiction novels like your favorite author, but try as you might you will never be that author - and that's a good thing because that space is already taken up on the shelf, but there is plenty of room for you. 

There are really only a finite amount of novel ideas out there and no matter what there are always going to be some elements that are like another book, but there won't be any of those books told by someone who has stood in your shoes because you're feet are currently in them. 

You need to bring yourself to the page with your own life, perspective, and voice because that is who your reader is looking for. 

Celebrate Your Accomplishments 

Imposter Syndrom often tries to make us look down on the things that we have achieved so the best way to get past this is to celebrate! 

Celebrate your milestones whether they are as grand as finishing your novel, or receiving positive feedback. or even reaching a personal writing goal, it's important to celebrate and recognize the hard work and dedication it took to accomplish what you have.  

Surround Yourself With Support 

The writing community is one of the most supportive ones out there. 

I have never seen another writer shame another writer for taking longer to write their novel or look down on them for expressing their feelings of self-doubt. 

Seek out writing groups, either in-person or online, and become part of an amazing support system that wants nothing more than to see you succeed. 

You are never alone with your struggles so reach out a hand and you'll be surprised at how many other writers jump to grab it and lift you up. 

Fight the Negative Self-Talk 

Like all negative emotions imposter syndrome is a battle you just might have to fight from within. If it tells you you're not good enough remind yourself of all that you have accomplished and all that you still will achieve. Fill your walls and computer screens with positive messages, and write out sticky notes with quotes from your favorite authors on writing. 

Set Realistic Goals and Take Action 

Maybe your brain is telling you all these things because it's a bit stressed out, try to break down your writing goals into manageable tasks. If your imposter syndrome is telling you that you'll never finish the book you'll prove it wrong, but it doesn't have to be all at once. You get closer and closer with each chapter. 

Be consistent and try not to overwhelm yourself to keep that fear of inadequacy at bay. 

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Think of imposter syndrome as that aunt that likes to bad mouth you to all the other family at holiday parties. You can either ignore her and continue being the amazing person that you are, or walk right up to her with a copy of your book and offer to sign it for her. 

You are not a fraud, and you deserve to celebrate each and every bit of success you gain. I just reached 300 followers on TikTok and even though that amount is minuscule compared to others, I am thrilled with it and I'm going to celebrate no matter what anyone tells me. 

Keep on writing, you have more stories to tell and you deserve to tell them. 

With all my love and support, 

B. King xo xo

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