Every Writer Needs to Hear This

Summary

The article encourages writers to overcome self-doubt, avoid perfectionism, refrain from comparing themselves to others, and be proud of their work, emphasizing the importance of sharing one's unique stories.

Abstract

The piece "Every Writer Needs to Hear This" addresses the common struggle of writers with self-doubt, particularly when publishing online. It suggests that writers often impede their own progress due to fear of imperfection and the pressure to meet high standards. The author offers four key messages to writers: it's acceptable for early drafts not to be perfect, as there's always room for improvement; comparison with other writers is unproductive because each writer has a unique voice and journey; the opinions of others should not deter one from writing, as audiences are subjective; and writers should take pride in their efforts and progress. The article concludes by acknowledging the courage it takes to be creative and encourages writers to continue sharing their stories, also inviting readers to support the author by considering a Medium membership or subscribing to a newsletter.

Opinions

Writers should permit themselves to produce less-than-perfect initial drafts, focusing on getting their thoughts and stories written.
Comparing one's writing to others is discouraged, as each writer's style and path are individual.
The fear of negative feedback from others should not prevent writers from expressing themselves.
Writers are encouraged to acknowledge and celebrate their hard work and the progress they've made in their craft.
The article underscores the importance of perseverance in writing, suggesting that only the writer can tell their unique stories.
The author advocates for a supportive community and suggests that readers can contribute by becoming members or subscribing to updates.

Could you be standing in your own way?

Overcoming your own self-doubt of publishing online is tough and as a writer, you should not let anyone come in the way of that. Ever thought that it could actually be that you are the only thing standing in your way?

Building on your self-confidence can be tough so here are 4 things you need to hear today:

Your writing doesn’t have to be perfect.

Sometimes it’s scary publishing your thoughts, stories and experiences online but often this is because we think our writing has to be perfect. This doesn’t matter, you will always have the option to rewrite so give yourself the permission to suck and just write what’s in your head. When you let go of perfection and embrace the possibility of mistakes, you’ll remove the pressure of publishing.

It doesn’t matter what others think.

As humans, we want to be accepted and as writers we want our work to be appreciated but we all write about different topics and therefore it may take time for you to find your audience, that being said don’t hold back. Some people will love what you write and others will hate it…just try not to take negative feedback too personally.

Be proud of yourself.

Reward yourself for your hard work so far, there was a day in the past when you would have dreamed of being where you are today. To know that you are giving it your all is something to be proud of, so today you should appreciate how far you’ve come.

Remember that it takes courage to be creative and so far you’re doing great. Please continue to write because only you can share your stories.

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Whilst you’re here, check out some more of my stories:

WRITING | MOTIVATION

Every Writer Needs to Hear This

Could you be standing in your own way?

Your writing doesn’t have to be perfect.

Don’t compare yourself to others.

It doesn’t matter what others think.

Be proud of yourself.

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