Imposter syndrome and the creative process: Overcoming the feeling of not being good enough

“How exactly did I come up with this?” I often wonder.

When I read back over my old articles, essays, posts, and books, I’m often amazed by what I’ve written. I can’t believe that I came up with these ideas and that I was able to put them together in such a way that they resonate with others.

It’s like I tap into a deeper part of myself, a part that’s different from my everyday self, a different part of my creativity. It’s like a horror writer entering their dark side, their shadow self, to create something truly terrifying. I can relate to what I’ve written, but I can’t believe I came up with it. It feels like reading a great write-up that someone else wrote.

This feeling is familiar to many writers, and it’s known as Imposter syndrome: the feeling that we’re not good enough, even when we have evidence to the contrary. I often doubt my own abilities and don’t see the value in my work. I trust others’ opinions of my writing more than my own. But when I read my old work after a while, I’m amazed.

Becca Brooks once wrote, “You are doing better than you think.” I believe that’s true for most of us. You may not always see your own worth, but it’s there.

I’ve found that one way to overcome imposter syndrome is to focus on the growth process, ask questions when you need help, and aim for progress, not perfection. I’m not a perfect writer, but I’m always learning and improving. Another important thing is to remember that everyone has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Comparing ourselves to others is only going to make us feel worse. Instead, we should focus on our own journey and celebrate our own accomplishments.

Like I said, it’s a process, and there are times when I feel like a fraud again. But I’m learning to trust myself and my abilities. And I’m reminding myself that I’m doing better than I think.

If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, know that you’re not alone. Many writers experience this feeling. But there are ways to overcome it. Keep writing, keep learning, and keep growing.

Let’s overcome it together.

Happy new month, and I hope you have a wonderful and fulfilling month!