Last week, we talked about Rejection…but that comes from the outside when others reject your work or efforts.
What about the insidious doubts that come from within?
Self-doubt can be a writer’s constant companion.
The nagging voice that casts a shadow over every sentence, whispering doubts about your talent, your ideas, and your ability to craft a story that resonates.
This inner critic is relentless, dissecting your work with a harshness you’d never inflict on another person, much less another writer. It questions word choice, plotlines, and character development, often leading to paralysis and stifled creativity.
This persistent self-doubt erodes confidence, making it difficult to share your work, submit to publications, or even continue writing. The fear of not measuring up can be crippling, leading to missed opportunities and a diminished sense of self-worth.
Learning to manage this inner critic is crucial for any writer who wants to thrive and share their voice with the world.
If any of these issues are currently bothering you, support is available. Book your free 15-minute meeting where we can discuss your specific challenges and explore potential strategies for overcoming them. Consider it a mini-therapy session for your writing soul.
You don’t have to suffer in silence. Let’s connect and start finding solutions.
STRUGGLES & SUCCESSES
How do I silence the inner critic? I have a few strategies:
- Name her (or him): My inner critic has the name of a middle school bully. Personify that voice so you can ask it 1)what it’s problem is, 2) what it needs.
- Do instead of Doubt: I prove it wrong. Prove your critic wrong by doing.the.damn. thing. Sit in the chair for 15 minutes, journal, or make some art. Something that proves that voice has totally got it wrong about you.
- Turn it around: I listen. Sometimes the voice of doom is there for a reason. Approach your inner critic with compassion and curiosity and see what happens.
You can read more about this and the next topic, writer’s block, in this week’s email. If you’re not getting that email, sign up at linseyewing.com/get-access. You’ll also find some fun writer freebies.
CURRENT NOVEL PROGRESS
TDG Draft 5 Word Count: 18,292 (back from the dev. editor)
ASD Draft 0: 14,376
It’s been going well. I haven’t pushed myself to produce, but I have spent time thinking about both manuscripts. ASD is finally fully outlined, and, though I said I would probably let it rest, I have a few more things to tinker with before I’m done with it. Might as well do them while it’s on my mind.
HAPPENING THIS MONTH
Tonight and every Tuesday through May: YouTube Stream at 5 PM Central / 6 EST
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE: The next meeting is Next Monday, June 2, at 7:30 PM Central / 8:30 EST
In Other News
Don’t forget about
Paperback Promo: Buy one, get one free on GOODBYE and LUKE. Signed and personalized for free. Shipping inside the US only. This Promotion is good through May 31!
and
LIVING WRITE: a 5-module course on creating a writing routine that works for you. Enrollment starts now and ends June 1. If you’re interested in either, contact me.
If you’re having trouble naming your passion, finding time to work, or just want to discuss your WIP, I’m only a click away. Take the time. You won’t regret it.
Start or Finish today. I can help.
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