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Writers! Here’s How To Have More Self-Belief

By on November 14, 2017
Writers! Here's How To Have More Self-Belief - Writer's Life.org

Sometimes we all need a bit of a boost, particularly when it comes to our writing.

In fact, one of the most common problems that we writers suffer from is self-doubt. If we let self-doubt take over, it can be pretty debilitating. It can stop us from progressing, it can fill us full of fear and stop us from putting our work out there. In the worst cases, it can put a halt to our writing altogether.

The good news is that if you are feeling full of self- doubt, you are not alone! Most writers go through a period where they feel unsure, uncertain and don’t have the confidence they should have to keep on going.

However, having a belief that you are indeed good enough, that you can, in fact, do it, is so important. It’s so easy, even when we are doing well and becoming successful, to believe it is all just a fluke, or that someone is playing a trick on us and it will all come crashing down if we so much as dare to blink!

So how can you get more self-belief as a writer, and never let writer’s doubt stand in your way again? Here are some helpful tips:

Have a writing mantra

Every time before you start writing why not start by repeating a positive writing mantra, or have a list of motivational quotes or phrases by your writing desk which you can read through before you begin? This will help you start off in a positive and confident frame of mind.

Write little and often.

The more you write, the more confident you will feel about your writing. Try to write a little every day, and this will stop you from going for long periods without writing and then feeling panicky and uncertain when you do attempt to get back to it.

Know that you are not alone

Remember, every writer has been in the same position as you at some point or another. Reading about other writers moments of self-doubt can help you realise this is just a phase and that you can get through it!

Congratulate yourself

You are following your dreams. You are doing what many people would love to do but just can’t. You are amazing! You should congratulate yourself for actually giving it a go. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t got to where you want to be, the fact that you are making those steps is impressive in itself.

Believe in your success, learn from your mistakes

When you do have some success, however small, make sure you take a moment to realise what it means. Success as a writer, in any form, is challenging. You should be proud of yourself. If you make mistakes or receive negative feedback, reviews or rejections try not to take them to heart but learn from them instead. Remember all of this is what makes you a real writer after all!

Be yourself, believe in yourself, and just keep going!

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

Bethany Cadman -author of 'Doctor Vanilla's Sunflowers'

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