Overcoming imposter syndrome as an author can feel like a daunting task, but the good news is that there are strategies to manage and even overcome it. Here are some practical steps you can take to beat imposter syndrome and regain your confidence as a writer:
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
The first step is to recognize and name the imposter syndrome when it happens. It’s completely normal to experience self-doubt, especially in a creative field like writing. The key is to understand that feeling like an imposter doesn’t mean you are one. When those thoughts come up, remind yourself that many successful authors (even famous ones) have felt the same way and have to work hard in their efforts of overcoming imposter syndrome.
Action: Start journaling about your feelings of self-doubt. Writing them down can help you see patterns and triggers, which makes it easier to confront and challenge them.
2. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
Comparison is a huge driver of imposter syndrome. In the age of social media, it’s easy to see other writers celebrating book deals, awards, or glowing reviews, and feel like you’re falling behind. But remember, you’re only seeing their highlight reel—not the struggles, rejections, and hours of work they put in behind the scenes.
Action: Set boundaries with social media, especially when you’re feeling vulnerable. Take breaks from scrolling through feeds that make you feel inadequate, and focus instead on your personal goals.
3. Celebrate Small Wins
Imposter syndrome thrives on the belief that you’re not successful enough. But what does “enough” even mean? The truth is, every step you take as a writer—whether it’s finishing a draft, sending a query, or getting feedback—is a victory. Acknowledge and celebrate each milestone, no matter how small.
Action: Keep a “win journal” where you document your accomplishments, big and small. When imposter syndrome strikes, read through it to remind yourself of the progress you’ve made in overcoming imposter syndrome.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
Writers tend to be their own harshest critics. When you don’t live up to your expectations, it’s easy to beat yourself up, but this only fuels imposter syndrome. Instead, practice self-compassion. Recognize that everyone makes mistakes, has bad writing days, or struggles through revisions. Be kind to yourself during these times.
Action: The next time you criticize yourself, pause and ask, “Would I say this to a friend who is struggling?” If the answer is no, then give yourself the same grace.
5. Redefine Success
A lot of imposter syndrome comes from a narrow definition of success, such as thinking you’re only a “real” writer if you’ve published a bestseller. But success in writing isn’t just about external validation; it’s about personal growth, creativity, and storytelling. Focus on what success means for you rather than measuring it by someone else’s standards.
Action: Take time to define what success means to you as a writer. Is it finishing a novel, building a readership, or just finding joy in storytelling? Write it down and revisit it when you feel doubtful.
6. Talk to Other Writers
Writing can be an isolating process, and isolation breeds imposter syndrome. By talking to other writers, you’ll realize that many of them experience the same fears and doubts you do. It can be incredibly reassuring to know that even established authors face rejection and insecurity.
Action: Join a writing group, either locally or online, where you can share your experiences, struggles, and wins. Connecting with a community can help normalize your feelings and provide support when you’re feeling stuck.
7. Reframe Rejection
Rejection is inevitable for any writer, and it’s one of the biggest triggers and can keep authors from overcoming imposter syndrome. Instead of seeing rejection as a reflection of your worth as a writer, try to see it as a normal part of the creative process. Every rejection is a step closer to finding the right fit for your work.
Action: When you receive a rejection, take a deep breath and remind yourself that it’s not personal. If possible, look for constructive feedback in the rejection, and use it to improve your writing. But don’t dwell—move on to the next opportunity.
8. Keep Writing, Even When It’s Hard
Imposter syndrome can paralyze you, making you feel like you’re not good enough to continue. But the best way to overcome it is to keep writing, even when you don’t feel like it. Each word, paragraph, and page helps you build confidence and improve your skills. The more you write, the more you’ll realize that you are a writer.
Action: Set a daily or weekly writing goal, even if it’s small. Commit to writing regularly, and remind yourself that it doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be written.
9. Shift Your Mindset
Imposter syndrome is often rooted in the belief that you’re not capable or deserving of success. Try shifting your mindset from one of scarcity (thinking you’re not good enough) to one of abundance (embracing your potential). Focus on growth and learning rather than perfection or success.
Action: Practice affirmations or positive self-talk. For example, tell yourself: “I’m a writer, and my voice matters,” or “Every word I write brings me closer to my goals.”
10. Seek Professional Help
If the quest of overcoming imposter syndrome is severely affecting your writing or mental health, it might be worth seeking support from a therapist or counselor. Talking to a professional can help you untangle deeper insecurities and find coping strategies to deal with self-doubt.
Action: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Therapy can be an invaluable tool in overcoming self-limiting beliefs and building confidence.
Overcoming imposter syndrome doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Every writer has moments of doubt and fear, but those feelings don’t define you or your abilities. By taking small, consistent steps toward self-compassion, realistic expectations, and community support, you can begin to overcome imposter syndrome and truly embrace your identity as a writer.
Keep writing, keep growing, and most importantly, trust that your voice matters.
You’ve got this!