Life of Writer | Writing
The Truth About Self-doubt as a Writer
An important part of a writer’s life
Writing comes easy to some people while for some people it’s very hard to write.
Even one of history’s most well-known authors acknowledged the damaging effects of self-doubt. Fighting the feeling that we aren’t good enough and continuing to write despite that dread is an age-old proverb.
Every writer feels this in life. Dealing with self-doubts is a tough thing. A feeling that we aren’t good enough can strike at any moment and happen to anyone whether you are a beginner writer or a pro. Self-doubts can be killer sometimes.
When I was a beginner, I used to thing that I am the only one who has this. However, the truth is every writer has self-doubt.
“I have self-doubt. I have insecurity. I have fear of failure. I have nights when I show up at the arena and I’m like, 'My back hurts, my feet hurt, my knees hurt. I don’t have it. I just want to chill.' We all have self-doubt. You don’t deny it, but you also don’t capitulate to it. You embrace it.”
-Kobe Bryant
Doubt is the reason that holds us back from achieving what we want.
Here are some ways how you can handle your self-doubts as a writer.
Stop Comparing Your Work
As a writer, you have read many authors' work but never compare your work with other authors. We all are here to share our unique voices. Therefore, don’t compare and design your unique style of writing.
Ignore The Haters
No matter what profession you are in, haters are everywhere. If there are people who like your work, then there are people who will not like your work. It’s good to accept that your work will not be liked by everyone.
One negative email might easily overwhelm twenty positive compliments. So, it’s better to ignore them and focus on being better than yesterday.
Take Self-doubt in a positive way
Mindset is everything. Change your perspective about self-doubts. It can be healthy if you just change your mindset about it. Self-doubt can help you to not be over-confident.
Keep Going
No matter what happens, life keeps going on just like that whatever happens keep doing your work. Never quit because once you overcome this phase there is so much more to do and enjoy about writing. No matter how your manuscript is, whether it’s terrible or worst, just don’t give up. You need to get your words out on the paper.
“Writing fiction, especially a long work of fiction can be a difficult, lonely job; it’s like crossing the Atlantic Ocean in a bathtub. There’s plenty of opportunity for self-doubt.”
― Stephen King
Surround Yourself with Positive People
Supporting people around you can change your life. We are influenced by the type of people we spend most of our time with. It is important to surround yourself with fellow writers, family, friends, and anyone else that supports your work.
‘Surround yourself with people who believe in your dreams, encourage your ideas, support your ambitions, and bring out the best in you.’ ― Roy T. Bennett
Remember, that it’s fine to have moments of self-doubts but never let your doubts define you. Believe in yourself and keep going. You will find your destination soon.
I would like to ask my fellow authors, how do you tackle self-doubts and uncertainty that come with your writing?
B.R. Shenoy Gustavo Gallina Dan J The Sober Vegan Yogi Yana Bostongirl Dr. Preeti Singh Elvie Lins Nour Boustani Jenine Bsharah Baines Trista Signe Ainsworth Dr. Fatima Imam Pam Winter Nicole Hilbig Patrick OConnell Lo Everlasting Mulan Linda Ng Pene Hodge Klara Jane Holloway Shereen Bingham David Perlmutter Lucia Landini Lanu Pitan Ainur Roviq Jan Sebastian Neera Handa Dr. Umar Imran Arbab Z. Danielle Hestand Sara Larca Carmellita Qudsia Inam
Do share how you motivate yourself to write in times of uncertainty and doubts.
If you like the work I do and want to support me. You can make my day by buying me a cup of coffee.
