Kick Imposter Syndrome to the Curb

Imposter syndrome is a term that many of us are all too familiar with. Personally, it’s something I’ve always battled with, especially as a business owner. I’m so good at helping others and yet, I sometimes feel I’m not cut out for entrepreneurship. If I’m entirely honest – this is B*LLSH*T!!! because I have lots of skills, qualities, experiences, and qualifications that need to be shared – but this post isn’t about me, it’s about you and how you can deal with it. For clarity, we will relate imposter syndrome to your writing (even though it applies to all aspects of your life).

Imposter syndrome is basically that nagging feeling that no matter how much you write, how many positive comments you receive, or how much you’ve accomplished, you’re not truly a “real” writer. You know the feeling, right? Instead, you’re convinced that you’re just pretending, and sooner or later, everyone will figure it out. Let me just quickly reflect on my own experience of this… When I first started out as a writer, if anyone asked what I did, I couldn’t say it. My response was ‘I kinda write books for people,’. I laugh at that now. I mean, who wants to hire someone who ‘kinda’ does something? If you can’t be confident in the work you’re doing and you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect your clients to? I’m not sure that I’d have let someone who said this write for me if I’m brutally honest. If your boiler was broken and the plumber arrived and said they ‘kinda’ fix boilers, would you let them near your boiler?

You see where I’m going with this, right?

But here’s the truth: you deserve to call yourself a writer, and it’s time to overcome the imposter syndrome that’s holding you back. When I actually worked on my confidence and mindset, kicked the imposter syndrome to the curb, and told people ‘Yeah, I’m a writer,’ in a confident way, they were interested in what I did, because guess what? Being a writer is ‘freakin’ cool and intriguing!

That’s why we need to get rid of imposter syndrome or at least manage it effectively!

Understanding Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is the persistent belief that you’re not as competent or talented as others perceive you to be. It’s the voice in your head that tells you your successes are just flukes, that your writing isn’t good enough, and that others are far more talented than you. This mindset can be paralyzing, causing you to doubt your abilities, avoid taking risks, and, worst of all, prevent you from fully embracing your identity as a writer.

But why do so many writers experience imposter syndrome? One reason is that writing is deeply personal. When we write, we put our thoughts, ideas, and emotions out into the world, making ourselves vulnerable to judgment. It’s easy to let self-doubt creep in, especially when you compare yourself to others who seem more accomplished or confident. However, it’s important to remember that every writer, no matter how successful, has felt this way at some point. Imposter syndrome is not a reflection of your abilities, but a common experience that many creatives face.

Why You Deserve to Call Yourself a Writer

So, how do you move past imposter syndrome and start believing in your identity as a writer? Here are a few key reasons why you deserve to call yourself a writer:

1. You Write, Therefore You Are a Writer The very act of writing makes you a writer. It’s that simple. It doesn’t matter if you’re published or if you have a large following. If you’re committed to putting words on the page, you’re part of the writing community. Writing is a craft that’s honed over time, and every word you write is a testament to your dedication and passion.
2. Your Voice Matters Every writer has a unique perspective and voice that no one else can replicate. Your experiences, thoughts, and ideas are valuable, and the world needs to hear them. Don’t let imposter syndrome silence your voice or convince you that your words don’t matter. They do.
3. Growth is Part of the Process No writer starts out perfect. Writing is a journey, and growth is a natural part of that journey. Embrace the fact that you’re constantly learning and improving. Instead of seeing your past work or current struggles as proof of your inadequacy, view them as stepping stones on your path to becoming the best writer you can be.
4. Success is Not a Requirement Many people feel like they can’t call themselves a writer until they achieve certain milestones, like getting published or gaining recognition. But success isn’t what defines you as a writer—your commitment to the craft does. Remember, even the most successful writers started somewhere, often with nothing more than a blank page and a dream.

Now we’ve established you’re a writer, how do we overcome imposter syndrome?

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Now that you understand why you deserve to call yourself a writer, how can you start overcoming imposter syndrome? Here are a few strategies:

1. Acknowledge Your Accomplishments
   Take time to recognize and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Whether it’s finishing a draft, publishing a blog post, or simply sticking to a writing routine, these are all accomplishments worth acknowledging. Create a list of your writing successes and refer to it whenever you start doubting yourself.
2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
   Comparison is a thief of joy and a major contributor to imposter syndrome. Remember that every writer is on their own unique journey. Focus on your progress and growth rather than measuring yourself against others.
3. Seek Out a Supportive Community
   Surround yourself with other writers who understand the challenges you face. Joining a writing group or participating in online communities can provide valuable support and encouragement. Sharing your struggles with others who’ve been there can help you realize that you’re not alone.
4. Reframe Your Mindset
   Instead of thinking of yourself as an imposter, start viewing yourself as a writer who is constantly evolving. Embrace the learning process, and remember that every writer, no matter how accomplished, is always growing.
5. Just Keep Writing
   The most important thing you can do to overcome imposter syndrome is to keep writing. The more you write, the more confident you’ll become in your abilities. Trust the process, and don’t let self-doubt stop you from pursuing your passion.

Embrace Your Identity as a Writer

Imposter syndrome may never fully go away, but it doesn’t have to control your writing journey. You deserve to call yourself a writer because you are one. Your voice matters, your work is valuable, and your journey is just as important as anyone else’s. So, the next time that voice of self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself that you are a writer, and no one can take that away from you.

Keep writing, keep growing, and most importantly, keep believing in yourself. You’ve earned the title—now it’s time to own it!

Much love, Janet XOXO

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