Becca Syme, a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and author of the Quitbooks for Writers series, shares her insights on writing better and faster. She dives into the importance of recognizing individual strengths and how tailored coaching can support authors at any stage of their journey. Becca discusses managing fear and distractions, exploring the nuances of imposter syndrome and overwhelm. Emphasizing brain diversity, she encourages writers to embrace their unique approaches, debunking the myth of a one-size-fits-all formula for success.
Coaching is essential for authors, offering personalized support that addresses unique strengths and challenges in their writing journey.
Understanding individual strengths through CliftonStrengths can significantly enhance an author’s approach to writing and navigating the publishing industry.
Recognizing imposter syndrome as a reflection of passion rather than incompetence can empower writers to overcome self-doubt and foster resilience.
Deep dives
The Power of Individual Coaching
Coaching plays a crucial role in the success of authors, particularly through individualized attention that recognizes their unique strengths and challenges. Becca Seim shares her extensive experience, having coached over 6,000 authors, emphasizing how personalized approaches can help unravel complex emotional and professional hurdles. She illustrates that effective coaching not only addresses a writer's current challenges but also fosters a deeper understanding of their innate abilities. This knowledge equips authors to make informed decisions about their careers rather than conforming to generalized advice that may not apply to them.
Understanding CliftonStrengths
CliftonStrengths provides a framework for understanding individual differences in strengths and how these can influence success in writing and publishing. Becca emphasizes that each trait affects how authors approach their craft and navigate the industry, highlighting that recognizing one's strengths can lead to faster and better results. For instance, an author with high empathy might excel in creating deeply resonant characters but struggle in marketing themselves to the audience. By understanding where their strengths lie, authors can tailor their efforts, allowing for more authentic engagement with their work.
Navigating Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a common hurdle for many authors, yet it may signal a deep-seated care for competency rather than an actual lack of ability. Becca clarifies that experiencing these feelings doesn't denote being an imposter; instead, it reflects an individual's passion for their craft and the desire to excel. Coaches can guide authors through these feelings by providing perspective and encouraging them to focus on their accomplishments instead of dwelling on self-doubt. Recognizing that imposter syndrome is not a failure but a signal of intrinsic motivation can empower writers to persevere.
Coping with Overwhelm
Overwhelm can often be misconstrued as a sign of dysfunction, yet for many writers, such feelings are simply indicative of heightened intake of information and the need for reflection. Becca points out that particularly for those with the intellection strength within the CliftonStrengths framework, feeling overwhelmed can be a natural response that signals readiness to process new insights. This understanding encourages authors to embrace their need for space rather than feeling guilty for needing time away from their work. By normalizing these emotions, writers can foster a healthier creative process that allows for growth without the burden of constant productivity.
Long-Term Success in Publishing
The journey to success in publishing is often nuanced and lengthy, with authors in varied stages of their careers facing distinct obstacles. Becca outlines that aspiring authors may fixate on initial failures, unaware that these experiences are part of a crucial research and development phase in their careers. Conversely, established authors may succumb to the pressures of public expectations, feeling they can no longer voice their challenges due to their financial successes. By understanding that success comes with its own set of hurdles and reframing their mindset, writers can cultivate resilience and keep pursuing their long-term goals.
Becca Syme (MATL) is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and has individually coached more than 5000 authors at all levels. She is the author of the Quitbooks for Writers series and the popular Write Better-Faster course, and the host of the Quitcast for Writers podcast and YouTube channel. She also writes mystery novels and lives on one of the thousand lakes in Minnesota.
Becca Syme, founder of The Better-Faster Academy joins us to help you get past whatever's keeping you from writing better faster stories.
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