Aspiring authors may encounter various trauma-related experiences along their journey to becoming published authors. Our goal with this post is to address several Trauma-Related encounters and, more importantly, to provide added-value solutions to writers, aspiring authors, and published authors who may be experiencing stagnation or writer’s block.
By the end of this blog, you will be empowered to transform your trauma-related F.E.A.R. into a new perspective-one that is
‘Feeling Excited And Ready’.
This shift in mindset can change the way you perceive your challenges, ultimately changing the outcome. It’s about saying, ‘I can, and I will do it!’
1. Self-Doubt
Many writers struggle with imposter syndrome, questioning their talent and worthiness, which can be emotionally taxing.
- The Problem: Many aspiring authors grapple with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, fearing that their work isn’t good enough. This common struggle often stems from comparisons with established authors or from internalized beliefs about their abilities.
- Impact: Persistent self-doubt can lead to procrastination, where authors avoid writing altogether, fearing they won’t meet their own expectations.
- The Solution: Invest in yourself by purchasing this amazing book: Fifty-two Shades Of Inspiration: Powered By Your Thoughts. Reciting affirmations can empower aspiring authors who struggle with self-doubt and question their own worthiness. You must define your WHY you want to become a published author.
2. Rejection
Facing rejections from agents, publishers, or even beta readers can be discouraging and can impact an author’s self-esteem.
- The Problem: Receiving rejection letters from literary agents or publishers is a common experience. Each rejection can feel personal, reinforcing feelings of failure.
- Impact: Authors may become discouraged, questioning their talent and the worth of their work, leading to a potential halt in their writing journey.
- The Solution: We redefine the definition of FEAR from meaning False Evidence Appearing Real, shifting to Feeling Excited And Ready because every no or rejection is another step closer to yes, as long as you do not quit when things go wrong, as they sometimes will. The fear of rejection will not become stronger than the dream of becoming a published author!
3. Criticism
Receiving negative feedback on your work can be hard to process, leading to feelings of inadequacy or vulnerability.
- The Problem: Feedback, whether from editors, critique groups, or beta readers, can be harsh. Constructive criticism can be helpful, but negative comments can sting deeply.
- Impact: Authors may internalize criticism, leading to a fear of sharing their work, thus stifling creativity and growth.
- The Solution: Understand that constructive criticism is designed to give you the opportunity to pivot away from what’s not working by embracing another point of view that can realign your pathway to becoming a published author in meaningful terms.
4. Isolation
The writing process can be solitary, and feelings of loneliness or disconnect from others may arise, especially if support systems are lacking.
- The Problem: Writing is often a solitary endeavor, which can lead to feelings of loneliness. Authors may feel disconnected from friends or family who don’t understand their passion.
- Impact: Isolation can contribute to depression or anxiety, making it harder to seek support or stay motivated.
- The Solution: Enlist the help, training, and assistance of a Literary Coach/Accountability Partner who has your best interest at heart.
5. Fear of Vulnerability
Writing often involves exposing personal experiences or emotions, which can trigger fears of judgment or ridicule.
- The Problem: Writing can involve sharing personal experiences or emotions, making authors feel exposed.
- Impact: Fear of judgment or backlash can prevent authors from fully expressing themselves, resulting in inauthentic writing.
- The Solution: Begin exposing yourself by sharing small amounts about some of your personal experiences with others on social media.
6. Pressure to Succeed
The expectation to achieve commercial success or critical acclaim can create immense pressure, leading to stress and anxiety.
- Description: Many aspiring authors feel immense pressure to achieve success, whether through book sales, awards, or critical acclaim.
- Impact: Such pressure can lead to anxiety and burnout, making the writing process feel more like a chore than a passion.
- Solution: Do not set unrealistic goals. Use the assistance of a Coach and the S.M.A.R.T goal system.
7. Balancing Responsibilities
Juggling writing with other life responsibilities (like work or family) can lead to feelings of overwhelm and burnout.
- The Problem: Many writers juggle writing with full-time jobs, family commitments, and other responsibilities.
- Impact: The struggle to find time for writing can lead to frustration and guilt.
- The Solutions: Create a time management writing schedule to help relieve the stress of balancing responsibilities.
8. Creative Blocks
Encountering writer’s block can be frustrating and may evoke feelings of inadequacy or fear of never finishing.
- The Problem: Writer’s block can strike at any time.
- Impact: Experiencing a creative block can lead to feelings of hopelessness.
- The Solution: Help avoid writer’s block by scheduling a specific day, time, and location to work on your book.
9. Financial Stress
Concerns about the financial viability of a writing career can create anxiety.
- The Problem: Many aspiring authors face uncertainty regarding their financial future.
- Impact: This stress can divert focus from writing to worrying about bills.
- The Solution: Don’t quit your job! Build your personal and business brands.
10. Public Exposure
The idea of being in the public eye can be daunting and lead to anxiety.
- The Problem: Sharing your work publicly can induce anxiety.
- Impact: Anxiety about public exposure can lead to avoidance behaviors.
- The Solution: Enlist the help of your trusted family, friends, tribe/community to share your writing journey.
Are you ‘Feeling Excited And Ready’ to become a Published Author?!
#1 New Book Release:
We encourage you to make a small investment in yourself by purchasing our #1 New Book Release, Fifty-Two Shades of Inspiration: Powered By Your Thoughts.” Inside the pages of this book, Dr. Michael Bart and Robbie Mathews wrote Fifty-Two poems that you can use during your self-development, self-help, and self-actualization journey of becoming a successful Speaker.