Get Out of Your Own Way!: 6 Authorship Tips for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and "It's Already Been Said" Doubts

Starting to write a manuscript can be an intimidating process, especially when self-doubt creeps in. Many aspiring authors struggle with imposter syndrome or feel discouraged because they think their ideas have already been expressed by others. However, your voice and perspective are unique, and your contribution to the literary world is valuable. Here’s how to overcome those hurdles and begin your writing journey.

1. Embrace Your Unique Perspective

Own Your Voice: Even if a topic has been discussed before, it hasn’t been discussed (or written) by you.  For real for real. I’m telling you—when I wrote the first edition of Real Talk, I did not look at what had already been written on presentation skills, I did not worry about what had already been written, and I really didn’t care what had already been written. I knew that I knew how to make presentations that sizzle. I knew that. Hands down. Without a doubt. And I need you to feel the same way. No lie. Your experiences, insights, and writing style are distinct. This uniqueness is what will resonate with readers. Sure, there may be plenty of books already out there about the best strategies for dressing up a dog, but the people haven't read your take on how the most effective way to do this is to put a pug in pink-framed glasses and a bow tie. Think of your writing as a conversation—there’s always room for a fresh voice.

Identify Your Angle: Consider how you can approach your topic differently. What personal anecdotes, cultural insights, or professional experiences can you incorporate to make your manuscript stand out?

2. Start Small and Build Momentum

Begin with Short Writing Sessions: Overwhelm can paralyze creativity, especially if you think you need to have a full outline and an entire book in your head that is ready to jump out onto blank pages. Start with something that’s manageable such as brief writing sessions. Focus on getting words on the page, even if they’re not perfect. You can always revise later. That’s what I did. I blogged for years, not realizing I would eventually use those words to create an award-winning book. You can do the same. Do not feel like you must sit down and immediately crank out a 40,000-word manuscript within a week. That’s not even realistic unless you don’t have anything else going on, and something tells me you have plenty of other stuff going on. Start small, then take it from there.

Set Achievable Goals: Break your manuscript into smaller sections or chapters. Setting and achieving small goals will boost your confidence and provide a sense of accomplishment.

3. Silence Your Inner Critic

Allow Yourself to Write Poorly: The first draft doesn’t have to be perfect—it’s about getting your ideas down. Embrace the concept of the “shitty first draft,” knowing that revision is where the magic happens. Besides, you are going to hire editors who will make sure your manuscript is bookshelf-ready, so do not feel like every “t” has to be crossed or that every “i” has to be dotted right away. (At least, I hope you plan on hiring editors … if not, then take this as your hint-hint, nudge-nudge to do so … or I’m assuming you have an amazing publisher like Press 49 that will take care of developmental edits, mechanical edits, and proofreading to ensure your manuscript shines. (And if you're wondering about all this different editing I'm talking about, check out this post.)

Separate Writing from Editing: Write without judgment, then return to edit with a critical eye. This separation helps prevent self-criticism from stifling your creativity.

4. Seek Support and Community

Join a Writing Group: Surround yourself with other writers who can offer feedback, encouragement, and accountability. Sharing your work with others can help diminish feelings of isolation and imposter syndrome.  There are all kinds of communities on social media that can give you a boost when you need it most.  I belong to a few myself!  Do a search and see what resonates with you, then click “Join!”

Find a Mentor: A more experienced writer can provide guidance, reassurance, and constructive criticism. Their insights can help you see the value in your work when you struggle to see it yourself.

5. Focus on Your "Why"

Clarify Your Purpose: Why do you want to write this manuscript? Whether it’s to share knowledge, tell a story, or inspire others, keeping your purpose at the forefront can drive you forward when self-doubt arises. I know for me, it was partially because I’d been met with a challenge to produce a book in time for a conference and partially because I was tired of seeing people make the same mistakes over and over again with their presentations.  Because of my why, my first book was born.

Reflect on Your Passion: Reconnect with what excites you about your topic. Passion can be a powerful antidote to self-doubt, fueling your determination to share your work with the world. 

6. Practice Self-Compassion

Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel uncertain or anxious. Recognize these emotions without letting them take control. Remember, many successful authors have faced the same struggles. I have been a professional speaker since 2001, and I still get anxious before each and every presentation I deliver.  Earlier this month, I was standing in a room that was set to accommodate 300+ people, and I could not help but think, “Who is going to want to hear me? What have they not already heard about communication and leadership that they will come to get from me? Is this room going to end up being half empty come show time?”  But the room filled up, and there was standing room only. This happens all the time, though. It's insane. I worry. I fret. I sweat. Then I find out it was all for naught.

Celebrate Small Wins: Every page written, every chapter completed, and every idea brainstormed is a step toward your goal. Celebrate these milestones to build confidence and momentum.

Starting your manuscript is the first step in turning your ideas into reality, despite the challenges of imposter syndrome or the fear of redundancy. By embracing your unique perspective, setting small goals, and seeking support, you can move past these obstacles and create something truly valuable. Your story deserves to be told, and only you can tell it in your way. So, take a deep breath, silence your inner critic, and start writing—your manuscript is waiting to be born.

Ready to get your book done? The team at the award-winning hybrid publishing company Press 49 is ready to make your dream of becoming a published author a reality. Click HERE to schedule your complimentary call today.

Thinking of self-publishing? Don't go it alone. Grab your copy of Do Not Write a Book...Until You Read This One. It'll be the best investment you made in your self-publishing journey. I guarantee it.