Have you heard the saying- talk to yourself like you would talk to your best friend? Well, let’s pretend you’re my best friend because I need to tell you something I need to hear.
As a writer, imposter syndrome is almost inevitable. I’ve never met, talked to, or heard of a creative that hasn’t suffered from it.
I have heard of creativity being compared to a muscle. It needs to be stretched and worked to gain strength. This is an accurate analogy because just like muscles, sometimes you have to give your creativity a break. If you feel stuck and the words aren’t flowing, give that muscle a break. Go outside and snap photos of nature at obscure angles, try painting a picture, or just squish around in some play-doh.
When relationships get rocky people say to look back and remember why you fell in love, or what brought you together. You can do the same with your writing. Reread that book that made you fall in love with words. Watch a movie to remind yourself just how moving stories can be. Revisit some of your older work and remember the feeling of completing something great.
There is no shortage of people to compare yourself to, in all aspects of life. It’s important to remember though that you started this path for a reason. There was a fire burning in you that begged you to get out a pen and paper, or computer and let the words pour out. There may not be any new ideas left, but they haven’t been told by you! You don’t have to be the best to make a difference.
You, best friend, are amazing. You are doing great things. You are enough, and you are valuable.
We want to hear your story.
We are always looking for more personal narratives and writing journeys to share with our community. Imposter syndrome affects all of us in the creative community. The more we share our successes, our failures, our challenges, the more support we can build to help overcome this beast when it hits.
Everyone has a unique story, and we want to hear yours. Find our blog submission form here to share.
About the Writer: Emmy Seal is a romantic comedy author. Living in Michigan with her husband and two kids, and dozens of plant babies. In her free time, she enjoys bike riding, hiking, and reading. Check out Emmy on Instagram for more.