Learn how to combat imposter syndrome in writing by embracing your unique voice, taking action no matter how small, and staying focused on your writing projects. Discover strategies to overcome self-doubt and fear, connect with readers on a deeper level, and share your unique message with the world.
Imposter syndrome can manifest as paralysis or writer's block, hindering writing progress.
Combat imposter syndrome by shifting focus from overthinking to following the heart's message in writing.
Deep dives
Understanding Imposter Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a common feeling of inadequacy despite success, experienced by many writers. It can lead to self-doubt, lack of confidence, and fear of judgment. The episode delves into how imposter syndrome manifests in different ways, such as paralysis, creative blocks, or giving up on writing projects. By recognizing these patterns, writers can begin to address and overcome imposter syndrome.
Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
The podcast introduces three strategies to combat imposter syndrome. The first strategy emphasizes shifting focus from overthinking to following the heart's message in writing. It encourages writers to connect with their unique voice and authenticity. The second strategy highlights the importance of taking action, no matter how small, to move forward in writing projects. The third strategy stresses the significance of staying committed to personal writing goals and avoiding comparisons with others.
Practical Tips for Writers
In addition to strategies, practical tips are shared to address imposter syndrome. Writers are advised to filter out distracting 'shiny objects' that hinder progress and to focus on consistent writing efforts. Journaling and self-reflection are suggested to understand underlying fears and cultivate perseverance. By internalizing the mantra that every decision contributes to personal growth and writing journey, writers can navigate imposter syndrome more effectively.
In today's episode, I'm sharing three strategies that will help you overcome imposter syndrome. Here's a preview of what's included:
[01:50] A quick story about what my two dogs, Forrest and Luna, taught me about overcoming imposter syndrome (and how you can, too). [04:35] An example of how a client I worked with suffered from imposter syndrome for twelve years before every querying agents with her story. Spoiler alert: she's now a published author whose book is with one of the big five publishers. [05:35] Imposter syndrome is defined as a collection of feelings of inadequacy that persist in spite of evident success. Imposters suffer from chronic self-doubt and a sense of intellectual fraudulence that override any feelings of success or external proof of their competence. Almost all writers experience these feelings of inadequacy at some point in the writing, editing, and publishing process. [06:35] Imposter syndrome shows up differently for everyone. For one person, it might look like paralysis or the inability to move forward. For another, it might look like writer's block or even throwing in the towel and quitting altogether. [07:15] Strategy #1 is to stop overthinking so that you can reconnect with your heart and show up as your true self. That way, you'll be better able to share your unique message with readers and connect with them on a deep level. [9:50] Strategy #2 is to take some kind of action, no matter how big or small. This will help you move out of your head and into your heart. Not only that, but it'll also help you get your story done and out into the world. [11:00] Strategy #3 is to stop chasing shiny objects. If you keep jumping from story idea to story idea, or from one outlining method to another, you're never going to get to the finish line. Instead, keep your head down, stay in your lane, and keep moving forward. [16:15] Key points and episode recap.
Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts
Are you subscribed to my podcast? If not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode! Especially because I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. So, click here to subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts!
If you're already a subscriber, and if you enjoy the show, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other writers find my podcast and they’re also super fun for me to go in and read. <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fiction-writing-made-easy/id1502307717">Just click here to review</a>, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the show is. Thanks in advance!