Kicking imposter syndrome to the curb

As we draw to a close in this course on storytelling, there's one critical topic we must address: imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is a universal challenge, and it's important to acknowledge it and learn how to combat it.

Here are some invaluable insights and techniques to help you overcome imposter syndrome and embrace your identity as a writer:

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Trust in your capabilities

Here's the advice given by two members of the team at DSLX.

"I always think to myself that there’s a reason I’ve been given work and that if I wasn’t capable I wouldn’t have been trusted with it. If something does go wrong, I try to remind myself that mistakes happen and it doesn’t erase all the wins that have come before it.
I also remember that asking questions is also fine, and that the person I’m asking is typically just as invested in the success of the project as I am! These two things make me feel less like an imposter and more like a collaborator." — Ella Webber, Account Manager & Editor

"I think that writing is easy enough (at least a basic level), if I’m doing this kind of work it’s because at the end of the day, I’m good at it and I like it, otherwise any literate person would be doing it—and they aren’t.
So it’s just a reminder that by doing it, I show I’m capable of doing it. Everyone can write a blog, but not many people can get paid to write a blog. And I am, so I must be doing something right!" — Cristina Rojas, Account Strategist & Content Writer

Introduce yourself as a writer

Introduce yourself as a writer, proudly and confidently, in various social situations. Embrace this identity, and let it resonate with both you and those you meet. You are a writer, speak it into existence and it is.

This is actually a lot easier said than done, and it takes practice. But, the more you say it, the more comfortable you become saying it, and the more confident you become when you say it.

Embrace opportunities and challenges

Understand that you are exactly where you need to be. Opportunities, challenges, and ideas come your way because you are ready for them. The fear you might feel is a testament to your passion and dedication to your craft. Embrace it; it's a sign that you care deeply about what you do.

Celebrate your "imperfections"

DSLX started out to empower dyslexic writers to write. Our mission has evolved as we have, and today we hope to empower all minority group writers to write. Your imperfections are the very thing that makes you uniquely you. Your experiences are threaded into your content and, in today's world of AI, are the very thing that people fall in love with reading.

Your mistakes, what people have told you are your "shortcomings," have all brought you to where you are today, the are woven into every line you write, and by being here and taking this course you're ensuring a more diverse and inclusive content landscape.

Celebrate who you are, and how you write; show the world what "imperfect" can do so perfectly.

Closing out

With these techniques under your wing, and the support of your fellow writers at your side, you can confront imposter syndrome and thrive as a confident, capable writer. Remember, the world needs writers like YOU, so don't let imposter syndrome stop the world from experiencing your talent.

Thank you for your dedication and talent, it's been a long journey but you're now ready to let storytelling elevate your writing, your business, and your passion.

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, where I'll continue sharing my writing journey. Welcome to the community.

Thank you for your time and your talent, and best wishes on your writing endeavors! You are not alone.

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