This post is part of The Indie Author’s Journey, a series exploring the practical steps and mindset shifts that turn writers into published authors. If you missed the previous posts, you can start from the beginning here.
Every author I’ve worked with, myself included, has heard this message in their heads:
Who am I to write this?
What if no one reads it?
What if they do—and hate it?
Those questions, which seem somewhat logical on their face, are not designed to help you. They’re designed to keep you safe. Your brain thinks that if you put out the collection of words you created with great joy and conviction, then you will be “unsafe” in the world. Your brain doesn’t know the difference between a real and perceived danger sometimes.
Commonly called Imposter Syndrome, it’s your brain’s way to keep you in check. And on some level, the voices never go away. Some days they’re faint whispers, and other days, demanding shouts. You don’t need to silence your thoughts to keep moving forward; you just need to keep moving forward.
When doubt hits, most of us stall, and we typically rationalize that we need to “take a break” for a bit, but in reality, we are scared, and we slow down or stop to feel safe. We tidy our desks, doomscroll, research endlessly, or find just about any other activity that is not writing.
So what can you do to keep moving forward when the thoughts in your head are telling you to put on the brakes?
The Truth Will Propel You Forward
You will never feel “ready.” The more your work matters, the louder the imposter gets. Know that you are “ready” the moment you start writing. And when you type, The End, you are still not ready, but you’re on the other side.
When you get stuck in the middle of writing, remember why you started to write in the first place. Write that reason down and put it somewhere visible near where you write. When the thoughts and voices begin to rise, remind yourself of that sacred reason.
Writing Prompts When You Are Stuck
The “Why You Started” can be one of many writing exercises that can help you get past Imposter Syndrome. Here are a few writing prompts that may help:
When does your imposter voice speak loudest—before you start, while you’re deep in it, or after you share?
What story does it tell about your worth, and whose voice does it secretly echo?
Think of one moment you kept going despite doubt. What made that possible?
How do you know you’ve crossed from “preparing” into “stalling”?
Why is your writing important, and what would the world miss if you didn’t write?
I’d love to hear your questions or comments. Please send me a message here.
This post is part of The Indie Author’s Journey, a series exploring the practical steps and mindset shifts that turn writers into published authors. Coming Soon: The Role of a Writing Coach.
