Have you ever found yourself in a room of writers, listening to discussions that make you question if you belong? As I’ve mentioned before in my last few posts, I recently joined a writing community, through taking an online course on how to write compelling memoir. A big part of this short course was sharing our work for peer-to-peer feedback. This was pretty much scary for all of us at first, but I really came to appreciate the thoughtful, constructive feedback I received. Through it, I also realised that everyone will have different opinions and trusting your voice and taking on what you want and leaving what you don’t is key. So all in all, was a great thing for me do and I learned a lot.

However one thing I hadn’t been anticipating was feeling overwhelmed in discussions with other writers. Or rather feeling overwhelmed just by reading and listening to how other writers spoke about the art of writing, about narrative, structure, the ethereal nature of memories. The group was a real mix of first-time writers but also those who have an academic interest and understanding of storytelling that simply flew over my head. Immediately making me feel not good enough, like I didn’t belong in the virtual room.

This was so interesting to me and I soon realised that while these writers were able to talk about writing intellectually in a way I couldn’t, my writing flows from feelings, intuition, an innate understanding of how to structure story or at least memoir. And that this is ok because we all have a unique voice and different strengths to bring to the table.

So with this in mind, for first-time writers who doesn’t have an academic background in writing, to help you in trusting your voice and not feel overwhelmed or feel like an imposter, some helpful tips are;

1. Focus on what is true for you and to you. You don’t need to over-analyse it. If you are feeling that you would like to approach writing in a different way then maybe consider a diploma or Masters although that is an expensive option. If not, just write from the heart to find your own voice. Intuition can be just as powerful as technique.

2. Build Confidence in Yourself. Do this by setting boundaries, by being selective in taking advice and just enjoying the variety of perspectives on offer. Absorbing what feels right and detaching from anything that doesn’t.

3. Practice Articulating Your Process. It can be helpful to find ways to describe your own process, even if it’s intuition-led. Phrases like ‘I feel my way through the story’ or ‘I let my emotions guide the narrative’ can give you confidence and help others understand your approach.

4. Strengthen Your Connection to Your Writing. Spend time freewriting or journaling to stay connected to your authentic voice. This can be especially helpful after group sessions, as it helps you to connect to your own style and stop the comparison junkie ride.

5. Remind Yourself That You’re Growing. For me this is the most important tip. Instead of seeing intellectual approaches as intimidating, view them as options you might explore later if they feel right. Embrace a growth mindset, stay open to learning while respecting your own voice and style.

So next time you’re feeling awkward or overwhelmed when with other writers, remember that writing communities can enrich your journey but doesn’t define it. It’s so important to trusting your voice, even if it doesn’t fit the norm and see all approaches as valuable in their own way.

I hope this has been helpful. Please do leave a comment about your own journey, I’d love to hear your stories.

Remember to love the journey and enjoy the ride. Until next time.

X