Overcoming self-doubt as a writer

Self-doubt is one of the biggest obstacles writers face. It whispers that you’re not good enough, that your story doesn’t matter, or that you’ll never finish. But self-doubt doesn’t have to control your writing journey. Learning to overcome it will allow you to write with more freedom, confidence, and joy.

Recognizing the Roots of Self-Doubt

Self-doubt often stems from fear —fear of failure, judgment, or not meeting your own expectations. It can also come from comparing yourself to other writers or feeling like an imposter. The first step in overcoming self-doubt is recognizing where it comes from and acknowledging that every writer experiences it at some point.

3 Strategies to Overcome Self-Doubt

1. Shift Your Mindset

Instead of seeing self-doubt as a roadblock, view it as part of the creative process. Doubt doesn’t mean you’re not a good writer; it means you care deeply about your work. Reframe negative thoughts with positive affirmations: 

“I am learning and growing with every word I write.”

“Doubting myself is part of the process but I don’t have to stay in the doubt.”

“My story is worth writing.”

Keep adding to the list; write these on Post-its and put them on the wall above where you write; write them all over your bathroom mirror. Do whatever you need to do to remind yourself that self-doubt doesn’t have to mean the end of your writing journey - it’s simply part of the process. 

2. Take Small, Consistent Actions

Self-doubt thrives on inaction. The longer you avoid writing, the stronger doubt becomes. The strong doubt becomes, the less likely you are to continue writing your book.

Conquer your self-doubt by creating consistent writing habits. They don’t have to be extreme; a simple 10 minutes a day will do. Every win - big and small - add up. Eventually, you’ll prove to yourself that you can write a book despite feeling uncertain.

If you need more support on things you can do to build consistency, check out last week's blog, “How to Build a Writing Routine That Sticks.”

3. Surround Yourself with Encouragement

Find a community of supportive writers who uplift and inspire you. Seek constructive feedback rather than harsh criticism. AuthorTok and Authorgram (TikTok and Instagram communities) are great places to start. If you want to develop relationships with other authors who have been and/or are in the same shoes as you are, start there. Engage with their posts, slide into their DMs (not in a creepy way) and thank them for the inspiration, share their stories. Show up for them in the way you would want your friends to show up and support you. 

Give it a shot and while you’re at it, slide into my DMs (@tiffanieharvey_author) and let me know how it goes!

Trust the Story in Your Heart

If God placed a story in your heart, He did so for a reason. Trust that your words have a purpose, even if doubt tries to convince you otherwise. Writing is a journey of faith—step forward, write boldly, and let your story unfold.

Overcoming self-doubt doesn’t happen overnight, but with practice and persistence, you’ll build the confidence to keep writing. 

Remember: Every voice has a story. Go write yours.