First of all, I am not a full-time sufferer of imposter syndrome. It’s an occasional viral infection for me. Some days I wake up and ask myself why I would ever consider myself an author. The number of published works makes no difference- every one had to be a fluke. But most days, I feel I’m a competent judge of my work. Some of it is good; some I shouldn’t have pushed into the world.
That said, however, it’s an obstacle when it happens. The internet is full of advice for those who suffer from imposter syndrome. Here’s more of it, from someone who is clearly not qualified to counsel anyone. (No imposter syndrome here. I am NOT a therapist.)
- Spend a little time pondering this question: Who are you trying to impress? If the answer is anyone other than yourself, you are fighting a losing battle. Your brain knows this. Hence, the anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt. Softly suggest to yourself that it would be fun if someone out there recognized your work as magnificent, but it isn’t necessary. If you love it, you’ve done more than most.
- Give in to the syndrome. Admit you’re only playing the part. Then, have fun with it. Remember Lucy van Pelt of the Peanuts Gang? She put out her “psychiatrist” sign and gave advice. Good for her. Put up your “author” sign and be one. In a few days, you’ll feel more authentic and you’ll have some interesting writing from your days of pretending.
- Blame the earlier generations. If it makes you feel better (and it doesn’t do much for me), think about your parents and grandparents, and how they didn’t need a license, degree, or certificate for most of the things they did. You had the misfortune of growing up at a time when your work had to be validated by someone who was considered an “expert” before you could claim it. Obviously, it’s a bullshit idea, and you don’t need anyone’s approval to write. Maybe it’s best not to perform surgery without training and supervision, though.
- Do something else. Clean a closet. Watch TV. Don’t force yourself to write when you feel that you’re incompetent. In fact, don’t even bother reading rave reviews from your past or talking to the person who believes in you the most. If you don’t believe it, none of those things will help you. Flush your brain and try again later.
That’s all my advice. As I said, I’m in no way authorized to give advice.
Happy writing, whether you’re a real author or just playing.
