A Writer's Internal Struggle

"This is possibly the best piece of writing I have ever done!"

"Ugh! What was I thinking? This is terrible!"

"Mmmm… Actually this sentence is pretty good."

"No one will ever want to read this!"

"OMG, this is wonderful. I must share it with everyone."

I imagine every writer has had this type of conversation with themselves. One part of their brain telling them that they are pretty much a literary genius, the other telling them to hide away give up on the mess they call 'writing'. It is a battle that all writers experience and not all of us come out victorious.

I believe the best way to beat writer's negativity is to make sure we do the best that we can. No one can do better than their best at any one time. You shouldn't criticize yourself if you have honestly strived to make your story the best it can be. Also, remember why you write. I'm sure you write because you love to write and create. Therefore you shouldn’t judge yourselves against the writing of others or by whether you think the writing is worthy of an audience. In my opinion, your writing is worthy of an audience if you pour your soul into the story and try your hardest.

Don't let the negative half of your brain overpower you, believe in yourself. Do your best and you'll find that with every story you write your ability will improve. Be proud as a writer and remember that not everyone can imagine characters, worlds, scenes, and stories like we do. Don't be afraid to share your gift!

Scarlett Van Dijk