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Impostor syndrome, that pesky little gremlin that sits on your shoulder whispering sweet nothings of self-doubt into your ear. It’s a common affliction among writers, and if you’ve ever felt like a fraud or feared being exposed as a talentless hack, then welcome to the club! But fear not my fellow scribes, for I am here to tell you how to boot this uninvited guest out of your creative process.
Understanding Impostor Syndrome
Firstly, let’s get our definitions straight. Impostor syndrome is essentially the belief that despite external evidence of competence, one feels like an impostor and fears being exposed as a “fraud”. It’s like being stuck in an endless loop of ‘I’m not good enough.’
This can be particularly prevalent in writing because our work is so subjective. One person’s literary masterpiece could be another person’s trashy novel. So how do we navigate this rocky terrain? Let’s delve deeper.
Recognise the Impostor Within
The first step towards overcoming impostor syndrome is acknowledging its presence. You might feel like you’re pretending to be something you’re not – a writer – but remember every great author started with a blank page and a head full of ideas. They didn’t magically morph into Hemingway or Rowling overnight.
Befriend Your Inner Critic
Rather than viewing your inner critic as an enemy, try seeing it as a misguided friend who just wants the best for you – albeit in a slightly overzealous way. This perspective shift can help ease the burden of self-doubt and allow you to utilise your inner critic constructively.
Reframe Your Thinking
Impostor syndrome thrives on negative self-talk. So, instead of thinking “I’m not a real writer”, try reframing it to “I am a writer in progress”. This simple shift can do wonders for your confidence and help keep the impostor syndrome at bay.
Embrace Failure
The fear of failure is often at the root of impostor syndrome. But here’s a little secret – every successful person has failed, probably more than once! Rather than viewing failure as a sign of inadequacy, see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. After all, you can’t edit a blank page!
Nurture Your Writing Community
Writing can be a lonely business and isolation can amplify feelings of fraudulence. Building connections with other writers can provide much-needed reassurance that you’re not alone in your struggles. Whether it’s joining local writing groups or participating in online forums, find your tribe and lean on them for support when impostor syndrome strikes.
Celebrate Your Achievements
No matter how small they may seem, celebrate your writing victories. Finished that tricky chapter? Give yourself a pat on the back! Received positive feedback from a reader? Do a happy dance! By acknowledging your accomplishments, you reinforce the belief that you are indeed capable and deserving.
Seek Professional Help If Needed
If impostor syndrome is significantly impacting your life and ability to write, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Psychologists and counsellors are trained to help you navigate these feelings and develop strategies for managing them.
In all its forms, writing is an act of courage – putting words onto paper is like baring your soul for the world to see. So, when impostor syndrome comes knocking at your door, remember this: You are a writer, not because someone else validated you, but because you chose to write. And that my friends, is no small feat.
So go forth and write with confidence! Remember, every word you put down is proof that you are indeed a writer. And as for that pesky little gremlin? Well, it’s time to show it the exit!
