How I Overcame Imposter Syndrome as a New Writer

Learning to dance with your fears

Starting as a writer, I was my own worst critic. I would labour hours on an article, only to think, "I am no good at this. My writing is not good enough!"

I had a severe case of impostor syndrome - that nagging inner voice saying you are a fraud.

This nearly stopped my writing career before it began.

Can you relate to that feeling as a writer?

That fear your writing lacks substance or you will get called out as an amateur.

After years of full-time writing, I can boldly say — imposter syndrome never goes away. But we can learn to dance with those feelings of self-doubt when they surface.

Here are the mindset shifts that helped me overcome imposter syndrome:

1. Comparing less with other writers

Early on, I would obsess over writers way ahead of me. Of course, their years of work seemed lightyears from my beginner articles.

Other people’s lives seem better than yours because you’re comparing their director’s cuts with your behind-the-scenes” —Evan Rauch

Once I made peace with different seasons in my journey, comparisons bothered me less.

2. Seeking genuine feedback

Our inner critic lies to us that we suck. But candid feedback reveals our actual progress.

I started asking writer friends to review my drafts. The positive parts showed me what I do well, despite imposter syndrome shouting I am no good.

3. Celebrating small wins

With impostor syndrome, we ignore the small wins that show our growth. The first time someone shared my article on social media, I brushed it off. After all, it was just one share.

Now I know to praise every small win. Be excited when just one new person opts into your email list! Tiny feats accumulate into big success down the road.

4. Remembering my WHY — motivation

When that cold grip of self-doubt returns, I recall my core motivations. I write to help others, make an impact, positively influence people, and make money as a reward for serving others.

Your WHY for writing is mightier than imposter syndrome trying to sabotage your efforts!

Why do you write?

5. Blocking time for enjoyment

Writing used to feel like a house chore until I carved out time to write just for me. No internal or external critics allowed!

Now, weekly, I write without judging if it is good or bad. The freedom to write unfiltered routinely keeps imposter syndrome from returning.

Wrapping Up

The next time imposter syndrome rears its head, revisit this article. Try out a new mindset shift that empowers you.

With consistent practice, the voice of self-doubt loses its power. Bit by bit, you realize criticism comes from outside sources but never within.

Soon, you dance fluidly with imposter syndrome when it pops up. You learn not to resist it but accept it as part of the journey to writing success.

I know your words hold power waiting to be unlocked. Do not let imposter syndrome bully you out of your writing greatness!

Grab a copy of my book, “The Writer’s Compass,” to learn how to develop your craft and earn money from writing.

Available on Amazon.

I hope this helps you. If it did, be sure to clap me a thousand times (joking, a few tens would do), leave me a comment (it will encourage me a lot — smiles), and share this with someone you know needs it (they say sharing is caring).