Writing can be a daunting task for many, with fears of failure, criticism, or simply not having the right words to express oneself holding them back. However, facing these writing fears head-on is a crucial step in releasing one’s creativity and achieving business growth.

In this article, I will explore the reasons why overcoming these fears and taking the first step in writing your client-attracting book is not only worthwhile but essential for both personal and professional development.

From battling imposter syndrome to embracing vulnerability, I will explore the various fears aspiring entrepreneurial authors commonly face and provide insights on how to navigate them.

So, if you have ever hesitated to put your fingers on the keyboard, read on to understand why starting is worth it in the journey of growing your business.

Understanding Your Writing Fears

Before you can overcome your fears, you must understand them. Many authors fear not being good enough or worry their work will not be well-received. These fears are often rooted in perfectionism and a fear of vulnerability.

Acknowledging these fears as a normal part of the creative process is the first step toward overcoming them. That way you can move beyond them and not let them stop you in your tracks.

I addressed several of the fears that stop people from writing a book in other posts:

• The Fear Factor: Tackling Top 5 Anxieties About Writing Your First Business Book
• Does Writing a Book Take Commitment?
• Power Thought: Not trying dooms you to failure

The Psychological Impact of Fear on Creativity

Fear can be a significant barrier to creativity. According to Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity, “Fear is the true name for what ails the blocked artist. It may be fear of failure or fear of success. Most frequently, it is fear of abandonment.”

Fear, regardless of its source or even whether it is real or imagined, triggers the brain’s “fight, flight, or freeze” response, making it difficult to access the more creative and innovative parts of our minds. In fact, according to research reported in The Cambridge Handbook of Creativity, fear only leads to increased creativity in “people scoring high on neuroticism.”

Understanding the psychological impact of fear can empower us to find strategies to push through it and tap into our innate creative abilities.

Overcoming Procrastination

Procrastination often stems from fear. By breaking the writing process into manageable tasks and setting small, achievable goals, you can build momentum and gradually diminish the power that fear holds over you. Tools such as writing schedules, accountability partners, and time management apps can be instrumental in this process.

Of course, if the fear is deeper than that, triggered by something you are writing, then other strategies will need to be employed. Ask yourself what it is that is triggering you? What are you trying to avoid?

Setting Realistic Writing Goals

Setting unrealistic goals can feed into your fears, leading to disappointment and discouragement. Instead, focus on setting realistic, achievable goals that encourage progress without overwhelming you. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, to keep motivation high. If you’d like some ideas on how to celebrate the milestones along your Author’s Journey, watch this episode of The Author Switch Podcast: Pages and Positivity: Celebrating Your Journey as an Author.

Strategies for Dealing with Writer’s Block

Writer’s block is a common challenge, but it can be overcome. Techniques such as free writing, mind mapping, or even taking a break to engage in a different creative activity can help clear the blockage and get the words flowing again. Which method will work will depend on what the root cause of the block is. I’ve identified six types of writer’s block causes:

• Cognitive Short Circuits: Glitches that involve one’s mindset.
• Mood Mechanism Snags: Blocks coming from emotional conflicts.
• Bio-Mechanical Misfires: Glitches that stem from your bodily health (or lack thereof).
• Habitat Grid Overloads: Blocks caused by something in your environment.
• Creative Pipeline Blockages: Glitches in the creative process.
• Higher Power Transmission Jams: Blocks caused when one is disconnected from the divine.

When you understand the cause of your Author Switch Glitch, then you can more effectively treat it and move on with your writing. I’ve developed a short quiz that can help you take the first step in identifying your particular glitch: Writer’s Block Assessment.

Celebrating Small Victories Along the Writing Journey

“Fear is what blocks an artist,” writes Cameron. “The fear of not being good enough. The fear of not finishing. The fear of failure and of success. The fear of beginning at all. There is only one cure for fear. That cure is love.”

So, when you find yourself procrastinating or blocked, show yourself some love. Remember: Every word written, every page completed, and every fear faced is a victory. Celebrate these moments, no matter how small. They are proof of your progress and a testament to your courage in starting this journey.

Conclusion

Starting your book-writing journey is a bold move that requires facing and overcoming fears. Remember, every great author once stood where you are now, hesitant and filled with doubts. By understanding and addressing your fears, setting realistic goals, and cultivating a positive writing environment, you’re not just writing a book; you’re growing your business and developing personally and professionally. The journey of writing is filled with challenges, but with each word, you move closer to not just being an author but becoming a more resilient and confident entrepreneur. Start today—because the journey of a thousand pages begins with a single word.

If you’re interested in learning more about how I can support your book-writing goals, I invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation call. This informal discussion allows us to explore potential ways of working together, with no obligation on your part. Select a time to explore next steps here