What is impostor syndrome? According to Merriam-Webster, it’s “a psychological condition that is characterized by persistent doubt concerning one’s abilities or accomplishments, accompanied by the fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evidence of one’s ongoing success.” Well, that about sums up how I feel when I know I am qualified to do something, or that I have the ability to learn it, but am too afraid to do it. What if I fail?
When I first started writing, I felt like an impostor. I think it’s something we all have to deal with at one point or another, especially if you like to learn new things. Everyone has to start somewhere, but it can be hard when you are beginning. I’ve learned a few things along the way as I’ve dealt with impostor syndrome, so I have a few tips that can help.
Accept that you have impostor syndrome.
The first tips is to accept that you have impostor syndrome (big revelation, right?). It’s not a sign of weakness, but a sign that you care about your work and the success of your writing career. Work on developing your craft. I don’t think anyone feels as if they are the best writer in the world, and there is always more to learn. Read books, take courses, talk to other writers, work with industry professionals, etc. Take advice from successful authors that you know. Learn from their experiences and their mistakes so you can avoid making them.
Journal.
Another way to overcome impostor syndrome is to journal. This can help you keep a record of your accomplishments and what you’re good at so you can refer to it in times of doubt. A journal can also help you work out how you deal with impostor syndrome when it crops up. A journal that reminds you of all the reasons you are not an impostor is The 30-Day Author’s Empowerment Journal.
When you look back on what you’ve written, it helps make those moments feel more real and less like something that just happened by chance.
Find your inspiration and motivation.
The next step to overcoming impostor syndrome as a writer is finding your inspiration and motivation. As you write your book, you’ll feel more confident in your abilities. You’ll also notice there are plenty of other writers who have experienced what you are going through now.
I recommend is connecting with others who share your passion for writing. Find someone who has successfully published a book or two (or more) and ask for advice on how they got started and how they overcame their own struggles with impostor syndrome along the way. Maybe their story can help to inspire you.
If this sounds like too much work for now, here are some other ideas:
- Look at local writing groups in your area by searching on Google or Facebook
- Consider joining an online community where people from around the world can connect over shared interests, like reading books together while helping each other grow as writers
Set a writing schedule.
As a writer, it’s important to write often. Try to set up a reasonable schedule and stick to it.
You can write in the morning, after school or work, or at night before bed. The important thing is that you write something—even if it’s just one sentence! You should also try to avoid distractions like social media and TV when writing your first draft.
When you sit down to write for the first time, try writing your first draft without stopping to edit so that it doesn’t feel like work but feels creative and fun! Editing while writing takes you out of the creative process. Wait until you have finished before you perform your self-edit.
Get feedback on your writing.
To overcome impostor syndrome, it’s important to get feedback on your writing. This can feel scary and uncomfortable, especially if you haven’t had anyone critique your work before. But don’t worry—you don’t have to ask someone who you know! Instead, seek feedback from people who you don’t know personally who will give you honest critiques.
You’re not an impostor for having impostor syndrome.
Impostor syndrome isn’t something that can be easily overcome, but with these steps, it’s possible for you to get back to enjoying the writing process again. All it takes is a little patience and determination. You will succeed as a writer if you keep working on your craft!
—Jessica Berry
J. Berry Editorial