When I figured out I wanted to write, and finally worked up the courage to start, so many things were standing in my way– or so I thought. I dreamed up everything you could imagine as an excuse of why I wasn’t writing, or what I should be doing instead. It sounds crazy to me now, but some of you might be in that same place. Writing is my dream, and it always has been, but I was struggling with the thought that maybe that’s all it would ever be– a dream. It seemed easier to stay in this dream land instead of taking the step of courage to put my stories out there. But I was missing the point. The point is, life is short, and if you want to write, write the story, or the poem, or the memoir. You never know who you might touch with your work. It wasn’t until I faced my fears, created my support system, and got in the right headspace that I was able to produce my first book. So, first know that if you struggle with those doubts, you’re not alone! And second, create the headspace and the safe environment that can help your story flourish.
The Doubts I Struggled With
Every writer, whether they are experienced or just starting out, struggles with doubts at some point. I remember my husband telling me that I am my own harshest critic. I was so caught up in the idea that my writing and my stories would never be good enough. I would rack my brain for every reason as to why it wasn’t ready, or why I couldn’t share it with the world yet. If I had just gotten past those doubts, I could have seen the beautiful story I had brewing in my mind. However, until I took the time to work through those doubts and found the courage I needed to push past my worries, my stories never had a chance. I’m telling you this because I want you to know you’re not alone in your doubts. It’s okay, but we have to push past them! There is so much you could have to offer as a writer, and you are getting in your own way because of your self-doubt.
Creating a Support System
I know I said we have to work past those doubts that are stopping us from writing, but I’ll be honest, sometimes those doubts creep back when I least expect them. There are slumps as a writer (otherwise known as writer’s block) where you worry about your story or your abilities, and having a support system that can keep you accountable as well as encourage you in your endeavors can make such a difference. For me, my husband has been that support system when I’ve struggled with creating a healthy headspace. He helps build my confidence and hold me accountable to the dreams and goals I’ve shared with him. Your support system can be anyone! But you’ll be shocked at how passionate your loved ones are about your work, and how hearing their love for your writing inspires you to press on and finish your stories.
Working on Stories I Love
This is a writer’s secret recipe. Because with all the doubts and my support system, I still need a little more to push myself to write a good story. The answer was simple. I need to create stories I love. I can’t worry about what I think people might want to hear or what might reach the sales goals–I need to write a story I’m passionate about. From Friends to Forever touched my heart as I wrote it, and when it came time for the release, I was so excited to show readers a piece of my heart. Those doubts and worries melted away when I was writing a romance novel I loved. As long as I was getting to publish a story I knew I was proud of and loved, I wasn’t worried about the outcome. So write what you’re passionate about and write what you love. You’ll see how that love drives your story forward and creates a masterpiece that is uniquely you.
Conclusion
If we fill our minds with all the worries and insecurities that face us, our stories will never have a chance to flourish. Create a space to work in that’s safe, and build the support system that encourages you to follow your passions as you write. The best stories are not created in fear. The next great novel is not formed in insecure, scared writing, it’s found in pushing our boundaries and letting our imaginations flourish. If you’re hung up on starting a story because of your fears or your doubts in yourself, talk to someone you love about your story. Let them encourage you and push you to start! Having that safe person and safe environment to create, can change the way you approach writing and spark the fire you need to grow as a writer.
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