Maybe you dream of writing a book, but self-doubt is kicking your butt. So let’s explore how to overcome self-doubt and start writing your book with actual, practical, easy steps. Because self-doubt is not a sign to give up. It’s an invitation to engage in conversation with yourself.
What we get wrong about self-doubt and writing
We often think self-doubt is a stop sign. It’s telling us all these reasonable reasons we shouldn’t write that book. After all, if your idea was any good, you would feel confident about writing a book, right? And you don’t. So clearly you shouldn’t bother.
Right?
Wrong.
Self-doubt is not a sign to give up. It’s an invitation to engage in conversation with yourself. It’s an opportunity to explore the things that make you squirm and see them for what they really are.
It’s the chance to turn the light on and examine those gremlins. They might not be as scary as you currently think.
And if it turns out they are scary and serious and fatal flaws, so what? You’re already NOT writing, so nothing lost.
But if examining those self-doubt mind gremlins reveals things aren’t as bad as you thought, then you will have won a mega-victory, and writing will become so much easier.
Engage in a conversation with yourself
When doubt creeps in, you don’t have to just sit back and let it scream mean things at you. I recommend treating it as a prompt to have a conversation with yourself.
For reals.
You CAN speak back to that nagging voice in your head. It doesn’t have to just blare mean comments. You can speak back, have a conversation, and see what happens to your self-confidence.
Here’s how:
Self-doubt conversation question 1
“I want to write this book because...” and list all your reasons.
Maybe you want to share your unique experiences, build your business, or leave a lasting legacy. Perhaps it’s to share part of yourself with your kids. Or say the things you never got to say before. Or pass on what you’ve learned to those coming up behind you.
Maybe you don’t know exactly why, but it just calls to your soul.
Whatever’s going on, talk to yourself about it. Honestly. No one will hear. No one will say your hopes and dreams are stupid. This is just you talking to you.
Self-doubt conversation question 2
“I’m doubting this book thing because...” and be honest about what’s holding you back.
Is it fear of failure? Lack of time? The daunting task of writing an entire book? Wondering what your mom would say if she read it? Not wanting to be in the spotlight if it did become successful? Not wanting to be self-indulgent? Worrying people will think it’s dumb?
Something else entirely?
Identifying these doubts is important. They might be legit. They might not. You can’t tell until you’ve at least identified them. So let’s see what you’re working with.
Self-doubt conversation question 3
“If I gave up on this idea, I would feel...” and write down your feelings.
Would you feel disappointed, regretful, or relieved?
Because here’s the thing: you actually could give up on this idea. That’s a real option. No one is making you do this.
Yet you’re here, reading this post, so something’s stopping you from completely quitting. What is it?
Self-doubt conversation question 4
“I want to do it because...” and remind yourself of your reasons.
This reaffirmation can reignite your passion and commitment to your writing project. It’s a way to speak back to that nagging voice of self-doubt, so you can start writing.
You don’t have to feel confident or amazing or like this is the best work in the world. You just have to be willing to engage with your self-doubt, and remind it that there is another side to the conversation.
Take the smallest possible step
Once you've had this conversation, it’s time to take action. Start small. Take the teeniest, tiniest step that moves you toward your writing goal.
Here are some examples:
Open your document and read through your latest ideas or words to reengage with your project.
Write for just five minutes. Set a timer and see what comes out.
Read another book that’s similar to your idea for inspiration and research.
You don’t need to do everything all at once. Just don’t let self-doubt stop you. Start small, and start work on your book.
My personal conversation
Here’s a peek into my self-dialogue and the steps I take to keep moving forward:
I want to write because I can help share ideas that aren’t talked about in everyday life but that matter, that are impactful, that make the world a little bit better.
I doubt myself because writing books is hard, and it feels hard a lot of the time.
If I gave up on this, I would feel disappointed in myself, like I let myself down.
I want to do it because I think it’s worthwhile, even though it’s hard. And I want to be proud of myself.
Then, I open my document with my latest ideas or words, and read it through to reengage with the ideas.
Ready to give it a try?
Engaging in this self-dialogue can be incredibly powerful. If you’re ready to take the first step but find it easier to talk it through, feel free to email me with your answers. I promise to keep them safe and offer any support you need.
Remember, writing a book is a marathon, not a sprint. Every small step you take is progress. So, start today, and let’s turn your book idea into reality!
Thanks,
Liz “Talking to Myself” Green
Editor and Book Coach
Green Goose Writing
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