Why do most writers quit? It’s not a lack of time, a lack of talent, or even a lack of technique.
Writers quit because they believe they’re not good enough. And there are thoughts that sneak in quietly to hijack your confidence as a writer and paralyze your momentum.
In this episode, I’m going to dismantle 3 of the most common myths feeding your self doubt. I’ll give you something truer to hold on to, so you can keep writing even when your confidence tanks.
Download as an MP3 by right-clicking here and choosing “save as.”
Episode at a glance:
[04:06] Myth 1: Real Writers Don’t Struggle
It’s easy to believe that writers with book deals, multiple novels or big awards write with complete certainty and confidence. The truth is, every author, whether it’s their first book or their fifteenth, has to push through moments of exhaustion, uncertainty, frustration, and crushing self doubt.
[07:27] If I Was Talented, Writing Would Be Easier Than This
This myth is tricky because it sounds logical. If you were truly talented, surely writing would feel natural all the time, right? Or at least it wouldn’t be such a struggle. The truth is, it takes much more than raw talent. You might have an instinct for language. You might have a storyteller’s imagination, or an ear for dialogue. But without training and practicing the craft, the execution won’t match your vision.
[10:20] I Need To Feel Confident To Keep Going
Waiting for confidence to show up before you write is like refusing to plant in your garden until you can guarantee every seed will sprout. Confidence is cultivated by writing. The longer you wait to feel ready, the more your project stalls, widening the gap between your vision and the finished book. The truth is, confidence isn’t the fuel that starts the engine, it’s what builds as you drive. So you don’t have to feel like a great writer in order to write. You just have to keep going long enough for confidence to catch up.
Links Mentioned In This Episode:
Quick Guide To Nailing Your Story Idea
Rate, Review, and Follow on Apple Podcasts.
“I love Writer Unleashed!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show. This helps me support more writers — just like you —to bring the story burning in their imagination onto the page. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. It’s chock full of writing tips and inspiration every Tuesday. Follow now!