Writing as a DOUBTER
You struggle to get past your doubts
You are pretty sure that you aren't a good writer. You remember not liking English very much at school, and it feels doubtful that anyone would want to read what you write.
So why on earth do you have such a burning desire to share your story? To write a book? These doubts plague you as you try to write, and you need to work through these fears so that you can share your story with the world.
Anyone who knows me knows I firmly believe that if you have that desire then you have EVERYTHING you need to make it a reality, and I want you to be able to overcome those doubts so that you can write the stories you are dreaming about. Remember - there is no wrong way to write your story.
And here are 3 suggestions of what can help you do that.
Lower the stakes. Often doubters question whether anyone wants to read what they have to say, and the fear of criticism from others turns into self-critical talk. You stop yourself before you even get started.
I find that what helps with this can be lowering the stakes - finding the smallest version of what you want to write, and write it, with no pressure on yourself to share. This could be writing it in a journal, or writing an essay.
For me it looked like starting a blog before I wrote my book. I had written several posts before I even shared any. Staying present is so important when lowering the stakes. Instead of running off afraid of what will happen in the future, set a timer, stay present and just write the low stakes version of what you want to write. This can build confidence!
Having an accountability partner or group. External support is a great idea for a doubter. You want a person or people who will cheer you along and encourage you, not other doubters. If you are interested, then you can join my free writing group on Facebook here.
Working with a coach. If a writing group isn’t enough to support you, then you may find it helpful working with a coach who can work with you to overcome your fears and blocks. Keep an eye out in my newsletter for opportunities to work with me in both a group setting, and one-on-one.
Ultimately, the most useful thing for every writer is to know your writing style and understand what conditions you need to make the most of it.
If you want to explore that more, check out my “Let’s write Success Guide” - a video training with an accompanying workbook - that I have created. It comes with a video that goes more deeply into the topic, and prompts and exercises that empower you to start strong, and improve your chances of success as you write YOUR way.
You can grab that resource here.
And I love sharing ideas, examples and my own personal experiences about what helps get through blocks when writing. Now that you are on my mailing list (and if you aren’t join here), you’ll receive my bi-weekly blog posts on this topic, as well as on strategy that will keep you writing until you reach your goals!
Want to learn about the other writing styles? Click on the links below.