292: Overcoming Procrastination, Perfectionism, and Self-Doubt | Azul Terronez

A Guide for Writers

In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I share valuable insights on how to overcome common challenges such as procrastination, perfectionism, and self-doubt when writing and publishing a book. I emphasize the importance of addressing the underlying factors that contribute to these obstacles and offer practical advice for aspiring authors.

The Impact of Procrastination, Perfectionism, and Self-Doubt

Aspiring authors often struggle with procrastination, perfectionism, and self-doubt, which can keep them from sticking to writing schedules and meeting deadlines. These challenges can also lead to prolonged writing phases and reluctance to submit or publish the finished work. It’s incredibly important to understand and address these common factors to facilitate the writing and publishing process.

Understanding the Root Causes

Shame and vulnerability are intertwined with perfectionism and self-doubt. Shame can act as a defense mechanism, shielding you from perceived flaws or feelings of not being good enough. Recognizing and acknowledging these underlying emotions is crucial in overcoming them.

My Personal Experience

In this episode, I share my encounters with perfectionism and self-doubt, expressing how these emotions manifested as a fear of being exposed as a fraud. I hope that my openness and vulnerability will reassure aspiring authors that they are not alone in grappling with these challenges. This validation creates a sense of empathy and understanding within the writing community.

Embracing Vulnerability and Imperfection

Drawing from the insights of renowned researcher Brené Brown, I share how important it is to embrace vulnerability and recognize that perfection is not attainable. Instead of striving for an unattainable ideal, authors need to focus on authenticity and genuine expression in their writing.

The Role of Community and Support

Seeking support within a writing community is an amazing way to combat procrastination, perfectionism, and self-doubt. Aspiring authors can receive encouragement, accountability, and guidance by sharing setbacks, doubts, and fears with a trusted group. This communal support provides a safe space for authors to navigate their writing journey.

Setting Realistic Goals and Celebrating Progress

I advocate for breaking down writing tasks into achievable goals, no matter how small. By setting attainable milestones, authors can maintain momentum and celebrate incremental progress. This approach helps in mitigating the impacts of self-doubt and perfectionism, creating a positive cycle of accomplishment.

Focusing on the Writing Process

Shifting the focus from achieving perfection to embracing the writing process is paramount. I encourage authors to concentrate on the joy and fulfillment of writing, rather than fixating on unattainable standards. By nurturing a positive outlook on the journey of writing, authors can alleviate the burden of perfectionist tendencies.

Actionable Steps for Aspiring Authors

I extend an invitation for aspiring authors to join the Authors Who Lead community and engage in the Mentored Author Program. This program offers personalized guidance, accountability, and practical strategies to help authors actualize their writing aspirations. This message echoes the sentiment that every aspiring author has a unique story to tell, and the world stands to gain from their contributions.

Join us again next week for more captivating insights from influential authors and publishing experts. Remember to subscribe to Authors Who Lead and visit our website for more show notes and past interviews.

That’s all for this week. If you have a message inside of you that needs to be written, today is the day to start. Don’t delay—take action.