Stop Calling Yourself an Imposter

So You Want to Write with Suzette

You are writing a book and are wracked with self-doubt. You feel like a fraud, like you aren’t a “real” writer. You have a bad case of imposter syndrome—or do you?

In this episode of So You Want to Write a Book, Suzette discusses commonly held beliefs about imposter syndrome and challenges writers to reframe it by thinking about it not only as a personal problem but also a systemic issue exacerbated by bias and exclusion. Listen as Suzette shows you how language matters and helps you move from imposter to writer with normal fears. Are you ready to throw off the label of imposter and write your story? Let Suzette help you find the way.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Work to normalize doubt in the creative process and refrain from pathologizing your feelings.
• Pay more attention to the language you use — and that others use … are you an imposter or simply unsure? Are you a women’s fiction writer or a fiction writer? Are you a mommy blogger or writer? Language matters …
• Support women writers and particularly women writers of color when they write books outside of their expected genres. Put your money where your mouth is. I’ve pre-ordered Rachel Rodgers book for that very reason. I’m not sure I need another business book- but who knows? It wouldn’t be the worst thing ever if she taught me how to become a millionaire.
• And finally, as the Harvard Business Review article states in its conclusion: Perhaps we can stop misdiagnosing women—and ourselves— with “imposter syndrome” once and for all.

Be sure to listen or watch our latest show for more tips!