As writers, we need self-discipline, perseverance and an unwavering faith in our abilities. However, as writers, we will be plagued with self-doubt, procrastination and writers block. Today we’re looking at some of the difficulties we face and how to combat the negative aspects and stay in alignment with our goals.

Let’s acknowledge some of the draw backs to being a writer. It’s often solitary; in the early days of writing a draft, the plot and our characters become our only companions. We shield ourselves from the awkwardness of admitting out loud that we are writers, to avoid the embarrassment of how we define ourselves. After all, at what point can we truly identify with being a writer, or even an author. When you’ve wrote a book? Maybe when you’ve wrote three books? Or perhaps when you get an agent? Possibly, until you hold the published novel in your hands?
And so you keep your passion a secret, burrowed away in your fantastical worlds of words. While the fire is hot, your creativity soars and the story oozes onto the page. You feel brave and inspired, and why wouldn’t you, not only have you created conflict and tension for your characters to overcome, but you’ve also crossed those hurdles with them. Every character arc has been meticulously navigated and you’ve fuelled their emotions with your own.
Then we move onto edits; we get feedback and learn to handle criticism. Though it may pinch, you know in your heart the changes will strengthen your manuscript, and so you courageously persevere. Finally, you start submitting your work, but the rejections trickle in.

Yes, you’re on Twitter and Instagram. And yes you participate in the blogging community. You’re doing all the right things, and yet, the nagging doubts that your not quite good enough seep in. Well-meaning family and friends ask about your novels, they want to know when they can read your book. And honestly, you’d like to know when that will happen too.
This is when the plague sweeps in. What if no one likes mywork? What if I’m never published? What if I write ten books and still feel like a fraud, a complete and utter imposter. What if my dreams never come true?
Take a deep breath my friends, you’re not in this place alone. Reach out to your community and they will respond with kind words of encouragement, because they have also visited this dark place. It will pass. The anxiety will disperse. If you’ve reached this desolate place, then it’s time to take a step back and practice self-love, self-compassion and self-care.

The traditional writing industry is difficult to break into, and rejection stings. Indie authors juggle an incredible amount of responsibility, constantly striving to grow their business and reach potential readers. And writers battling their first novel have overwhelming new lessons to learn.
Whatever route you’ve taken, it takes guts to be a writer, putting your heart and soul into something for years that no one sees. Who knows what’s next? That’s not the point, look at where you’ve been and all you’ve accomplished. I congratulate you, I validate your struggles, and I’ll be here to celebrate your success.

How do you deal with the negative side of writing? I’d love to hear your answers because I know how incredibly supportive you are.
Thanks for stopping by. Until next time, Much Love.
Well penned 👌
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome
LikeLike
I think I’m lucky to have found this article today. This is totally me! Thanks for the encouragement. This is what I need at the moment. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re not alone in your doubts and fears. This writing community is right beside you. 💙😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I completely relate, but I do enjoy the secret aspect of writing, the solitariness of the lifestyle, at least most of the time =)
LikeLiked by 1 person
This blog is so relatable, and I’m sure it will be to every writer who reads it! Your reminder that we’re not in this alone, and that everybody feels this way is so reassuring. ❤ Thanks so much for posting xx
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks M, I hope this post offers a little inspiration to those who are struggling. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love these articles. Self-doubt is a horrible thing and it’s great to know we all have it. Thanks for putting it together so succinctly. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re welcome, knowing we all suffer with the same fears is a huge support for me too. ☺️
LikeLike
The journey of a writer is wrought with challenges, but many things in life worth doing are. Cheers.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well said!! 😃
LikeLike
👏🏻 yes! This post perfectly sums up the last few years of my life. You’ve tapped into how we all feel, Rainy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m feeling it too, unfortunately it’s part of the process. And your success spurs me on. ☺️
LikeLiked by 1 person
😊❤️
LikeLike
It’s easy to convince ourselves we are the only ones suffering from this. I’ll bet everyone who reads this post will relate in something. I know I did.
I’ve had days where I’ve said to myself – Who am I kidding? But then I realize one of my writing friends said the same thing but they haven’t stopped.
A great post as always.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’ve identified the clarification beautifully, if despite all of the doubts and fears we still continue to craft, then we are truly writers. ☺️
LikeLike
A reassuring and informative read!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re very welcome, keep up the good work 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Pingback: The Sunshine Blogger Award – Roses and Thorns Books
Thanks for sharing ☺️💙
LikeLike
Great post! Thank you for writing it – we are all in this together , and it is indeed the same for artists:>)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely Lynne, all artists. Thanks for commenting.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Pingback: [TRADUÇÃO] Expectativas e Medos de Escritores – Blog do Palhão
Thanks for sharing, Lucas.
LikeLike
This was an incredibly insightful post! I’ve certainly struggled a lot with keeping my writing momentum going & it’s incredibly reassuring knowing that other writers battle self-doubt too. Thanks for such encouraging advice. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome Tom, and you’re certainly not alone… self-doubt is something all artists struggle with. I hope it passes soon, never give up on your dreams. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
❤️❤️❤️❤️
LikeLike
Why do you write? What does it mean to write? Do you find purpose in writing? Is it an existential need? Can you do something else besides writing?
The doubts surely trickle in. I think writing should be personal. It’s really no one’s business. It’s your process, it’s your life. It’s like your sexual orientation or your bank account, it’s your business and no one else’s.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love this, Victor. Your attitude is inspiring. 💙💙 Thank you for commenting. 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
How do I deal with the negative side? I act like Dory… Just keep writing. Just keep writing. Just keep writing, writing, writing. And then I beg people to read my short stories. (I mean… BEG!)
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s a great attitude to have, and I’m sure some people will beg you to let them read your short stories. Thanks for commenting. 😊
LikeLike