From Edie: Discover 3 powerful ways to write with confidence. Overcome fear, rekindle your purpose, and find renewed joy and creativity in your writing journey.
How to Write with Confidence: 3 Ways to Overcome Fear and Rekindle Purpose
by Lilka Raphael @Lilka_Raphael
“With confidence you have won before you have started” Marcus Garvey
The problem with writers is that we seek perfection. Even our imperfect writing is often planned. Still, trying to get it right when we write can leave us staring at a blank screen. If you feel stuck or stumped, here are three tips to stir those creative juices and write with confidence.
1. Tap Into Your Talents
Most authors have multiple talents. Some of these talents don’t emerge until years into our writing careers. If you feel depleted writing one genre, perhaps it’s time to explore another. I’ve written devotions for years and continue to do so. However, this year I found myself unexpectedly completing a book about real estate. I never considered the topic before, but the words flowed easily. I finished the manuscript in less than a month. Furthermore, my newfound ability to write about a variety of non-fiction topics probably helped me land my agent.
Sometimes the best way forward is to switch gears. Allow yourself leeway to explore different genres or media, especially if you have expertise in a particular area. Delving into new topics may produce a body of work and professional satisfaction you never imagined. We lose nothing by exploring new avenues. It is often the unexpected pivots in life that produce success.
2. Remember Why You Write
Do you want to teach or entertain? Is your mission to save souls or create worlds that immerse readers in fantastical adventures? Remembering our why renews the enthusiasm that originally enticed us to play with words. Sometimes the business of writing—deadlines and contractual obligations—inadvertently diminishes our purpose. Whether it is a horror anthology or spreading the gospel, our why motivates us to keep writing. When we write with purpose, the words will eventually find us.
3. Stay Connected
Professional organizations, writing forums, and fellow authors can ignite creativity and provide a host of ideas. Staying connected in person or online fosters a community where everyone can win. I can’t count the number of times I’ve used a writing prompt or have been encouraged to pursue an idea that grew into a larger project. Staying engaged with the people we meet at conferences and local organizations not only provides resources that improve our writing but also allows us to build meaningful professional relationships. This camaraderie can keep us engaged and encouraged. When we stay connected, we don’t have to know it all. Instead, our fellow writers are often advocates and resources that lead us toward innovative opportunities.
Intentionally developing our talents, pursuing our purpose, and connecting with other authors cultivates the confidence to write well. When we acknowledge our potential, anything is possible.
Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise. Hebrews 10:35-36 NKJV
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Lilka’s greatest achievements are her two adult sons who have flown the nest. Happily married for thirty-two years, she lives east of Atlanta with her husband, Rod. They now share their home with two German Shepherds—Holly and Ivy—and one naughty kitty, Moxie.
Thank you Lilka for your article. I try to remember that I am not competing with anyone but myself. I strive to be a better writer today than yesterday.
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