The Behind the Scenes of Writing a Book

I recently shared that I’m currently in the process of writing a book and I promised to share some of the “behind the scenes” of my writing process. One of the reasons I want to do that is because the thing that’s been the most helpful in getting me to the place of believing I’m capable of writing a book has been seeing the behind the scenes of the process for other writers. Today I want to share with you about my experience with imposter syndrome as a writer including some resources I recommend that have helped me with to cope with imposter syndrome as a writer.

Many Talented Writers Struggle With Imposter Syndrome

One of the things that kept me from advancing with my book for a long time was imposter syndrome. The truth is, it’s still there. When I sit down to work on my book, imposter syndrome likes to sit down right beside me and whisper-

“if you were really cut out to be a writer, it would be way easier than this.”

But I no longer let fear or imposter syndrome keep me from advancing with my writing. I know from the books I’ve read about writing that I’m not alone in experiencing imposter syndrome as a writer and that it’s no indicator of my ability. There are many highly talented, published authors out there who I know have struggled with their own creative process so when I hear imposter syndrome pop up I can see it for what it is and keep typing away regardless.

For instance, did you know that even Maya Angelou struggled with imposter syndrome? She once said-

“I have written 11 books, but each time I think, ‘Uh oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’”

Imposter syndrome comes up when we’re stepping out of our comfort zone and taking risks. If you wait around for imposter syndrome to disappear you may be waiting forever. If you want to live a fulfilling and meaningful life and pursue scary drams, like writing a book, there may be no way around imposter syndrome.

I now know that imposter syndrome and fear aren’t going to disappear, and if I wait around expecting them to then I’ll never make my dreams a reality. The most important thing is to find your own tools for dealing with imposter syndrome as a writer so that it doesn’t hold you back from sharing your story with the world.

My Favorite Resources for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Writer

I want to share with you a few of my favorite resources that have helped me to cope with imposter syndrome as a writer by giving me a realistic mindset about the creative process, and have shown me that true courage is not the absence of fear, but recognizing that your dreams are too important to let fear stop you.

Books

“The Artist’s Way,” by Julia Cameron

“Big Magic,” by Elizabeth Gilbert

“Bird by Bird” by Anne Lamott

“Daring Greatly” by Brene Brown

“Playing Big” by Tara Mohr

Videos

“Why Science Demands a Leap Into the Unknown” (TED Talk by Uri Alon)

“Your Elusive Creative Genius” (TED Talk by Elizabeth Gilbert)

“The Call to Courage” (Netflix special with Brene Brown)

I hope these resources might help you overcome imposter syndrome as a writer, get started on any creative projects you’ve been dreaming about, and keep you moving forward even if imposter syndrome tries to hold you back.

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