Overcoming The Dreaded Imposter Syndrome

Have you ever felt like a fraud? Like you're just playing a role and could be found out at any moment? Well, welcome to the club! This is a common feeling among freelance writers, known as imposter syndrome.

But don't worry, we've got some tips to help you overcome it. And remember, every great writer started somewhere, even Shakespeare had to learn his ABCs!

Chapter 1: The Journey Begins

Firstly, let's get one thing straight. Every single person that starts a freelance writing business had to start somewhere. There was a time where every single freelancer had never made a dollar online. So, if you're feeling like an imposter, remember, you're not alone. This is just the beginning stage. It's like being a baby giraffe, a bit wobbly at first, but soon you'll be striding confidently across the savannah of freelance writing.

Now, you might be thinking, "But I'm not a baby giraffe, I'm a human with complex emotions and a Netflix subscription!" And you're right. But the analogy still stands. Just like a baby giraffe learning to walk, you're learning to navigate the world of freelance writing. You're going to stumble, you're going to fall, but eventually, you'll find your footing and start making strides.

Secondly, you are a writer. Yes, you! If you can write at all, you are a writer. You need to change your thought process from "I want to be a writer" to "I am a writer". It's like going from "I want to be a superhero" to "I am a superhero". You may not have gotten paid yet, but you are open and available to get paid to write. That makes you a freelance writer. So, put on your cape and let's get to work!

You don't need a literal cape (although, it could be a fun addition to your work attire). Your "cape" is your writing skills. Every time you sit down to write, you're putting on your cape. You're stepping into your role as a writer. So, wear it proudly!

Chapter 3: The Fear of Rejection

Thirdly, the worst thing that can happen if you send a pitch is they say no. It's not like they're going to send a swarm of killer bees to your house. They'll just say no. And guess what? With every no, you get closer to the first yes. It's like playing a game of "hot and cold". Every "no" is a "cold" that guides you closer to the "hot" of a yes.

Rejection is a part of the freelance writing business. It's like rain in Seattle or traffic in Los Angeles, it's just something you have to deal with. But remember, every rejection is just a stepping stone on the path to acceptance. So, don't let the fear of rejection stop you from pursuing your freelance writing dreams. After all, you can't win the lottery if you don't buy a ticket.

Chapter 4: The Relative Expert

Lastly, you don't need to be an expert on everything you write about. You just need to know enough to be a little bit more educated than the average person. It's like being a tour guide. You don't need to know every single detail about the city, just enough to show people around and answer their questions.

Now, this doesn't mean you can just make stuff up. No, no, no. That's a one-way ticket to losing credibility faster than a toupee in a hurricane.

What it means is that you don't need to have a PhD in a subject to write about it. You just need to do your research, understand the topic, and present it in a way that's engaging and informative.

Imposter syndrome is like a pesky mosquito buzzing in your ear. Ignoring it won't make it go away. In fact, it might just make it buzz louder. So, instead of trying to ignore it, acknowledge it. Say, "Hello, imposter syndrome. I see you. I hear you. But I'm not going to let you control me."

This might sound a bit like a self-help book, but it's true. Acknowledging your feelings is the first step towards overcoming them. It's like when you're cleaning your house. You can't clean up the mess if you don't first acknowledge that it's there.

What do you do when you finish a project? Just move on to the next thing on your to-do list? This could unwittingly be feeding the imposter monster.

Taking time to celebrate and enjoy your successes is an important part of job satisfaction. And when you’re a freelance writer, you don’t have a boss or manager there in the background to praise you when things go well or help you see what you’ve achieved in an annual review. You have to be that cheerleader for yourself.

So, the next time you finish a project, take a moment to celebrate. Do a little dance. Treat yourself to a fancy coffee. Or just take a moment to bask in the satisfaction of a job well done. It's like giving yourself a high five. Who doesn't love a good high five?

Chapter 7: The Art of Faking It

You know those people who come across as so confident, charismatic, and self-assured? The people who always seem to be smiling and relaxed, no matter how much pressure they’re under? Don’t you wish you could be like them? Here’s a secret: You can! Here’s another secret: They don’t feel that confident all the time. They just got good at faking it until it became a reality for them.

So, put on your best smile, stand tall, and fake it till you make it. It's like playing a role in a play. At first, you might feel a bit awkward and out of place. But the more you practice, the more comfortable you'll become. And before you know it, you'll be the confident, successful freelance writer you've always wanted to be.

Perfectionism is a common trait among writers, especially those suffering from imposter syndrome. You want every sentence to be just right, every word to be perfect. But here's the thing: perfection is an illusion. It's like chasing a rainbow. No matter how far you run, you'll never reach the end.

So, instead of striving for perfection, strive for progress. Every word you write, every sentence you craft, is a step forward. And remember, it's okay to make mistakes. In fact, mistakes are how we learn and grow. So, embrace your imperfections. They're what make you unique.

Chapter 9: The Power of Community

Freelance writing can be a lonely business. You're often working alone, without the camaraderie of a traditional office environment. But just because you're working alone doesn't mean you have to be lonely. There's a whole community of freelance writers out there, ready and willing to offer support and encouragement.

So, reach out. Join a writing group. Attend a writer's conference. Connect with other writers on social media. Not only will you find a supportive community, but you'll also gain valuable insights and tips from other writers. It's like joining a book club, but instead of discussing books, you're discussing writing.

Chapter 10: The Final Word

Overcoming imposter syndrome isn't easy. It takes time, patience, and a lot of self-love. But with these tips, you'll be well on your way to conquering your self-doubt and embracing your identity as a freelance writer.

So, keep writing. Keep learning. Keep growing. And most importantly, keep believing in yourself. Because you are a writer. And you are enough.

Now, go forth and conquer the world of freelance writing, one word at a time! And remember, no matter how many times you stumble, no matter how many times you fall, you're still a writer. And that's something to be proud of.