332: Letting Go of Doubt | Azul Terronez

Write, Publish, and Impact Readers Worldwide

Writing a book is a dream for many, but fear often stands in the way of making that dream a reality. In this compelling solo episode of Authors Who Lead, I delve into the core obstacles that aspiring authors face and offer tangible insights on how to overcome them. Let’s explore the key themes providing a roadmap for anyone looking to transform their fear into a powerful motivator for writing.

Fear: The Ultimate Nemesis of Writing

I open the discussion by addressing the primary reason people never finish their manuscripts—fear. Whether it’s fear of not being good enough, fear of failure, or fear of judgment, this powerful emotion can paralyze even the most talented writers.

Fear manifests in many forms. Some might argue that their schedule or changing ideas are the main obstacles. However, these excuses often mask the underlying fear. Procrastination can stem from the fear of inadequacy, while the constant evolution of ideas might be rooted in perfectionism—a form of fear about being judged or misunderstood.

I emphasize that fear isn’t entirely harmful. It has a protective instinct, alerting us to potential risks. Instead of viewing fear as a barrier, we can leverage it as a driving force. Fear of negative reviews, for instance, can be mitigated by understanding that such reviews are subjective opinions that reflect more about the reviewer than the writer.

The Myth of “Good Enough”

One of the most toxic beliefs holding writers back is the notion of being “good enough.” I challenge this by asking, “Good enough for whom?” This question reveals the dangerous trap of seeking universal approval, which is impossible to attain.

Writing a book means crafting a message that resonates with a specific group of people. Not everyone will understand or appreciate your work, and that’s okay. Inside jokes and references work because they speak to those who get it. Similarly, your book should aim to impact your target audience deeply, rather than appealing to everyone superficially.

Your goal should not be to please everyone but to be authentically yourself. People connect with books that offer a clear, bold, and genuine perspective, not those that try to be all things to all people. I encourage writers to stand firm in who they are and what they believe, as this authenticity will matter more than any fear.

Clarity and Commitment: The Antidote to Paralysis

Fear often leads to a lack of clarity, causing writers to doubt their path and message. This lack of clarity can be debilitating, making it crucial to commit to a writing plan.

I stress the importance of getting organized and setting a writing plan. Consistent small efforts, such as writing a sentence or a page a day, can lead to the completion of a manuscript. Waiting for the perfect time is a futile endeavor because there’s never a perfect time to start writing a book.

One of the common pitfalls is overwhelming the reader with too much information. The best books often convey a simple, clear message. Overloading your book with details can dilute its impact. Instead, focus on distilling your message in a way that’s accessible and profound.

Writing Beyond Good and Bad: A New Perspective

Writers often get caught up in judging their work as good or bad. I suggest suspending this binary judgment to unlock greater creativity and courage.

Imagine writing without the fear of criticism. What if you could let go of the need for your book to be good or bad? This mindset shift can free you to explore your true voice and opinions without the crippling fear of judgment.

The Importance of Your Voice

Our voices are unique, and the world needs our perspectives. Writing a book is not just about sharing knowledge; it’s about sharing your unique lens and impacting readers.

Writing a book allows you to leave a legacy that endures beyond your lifetime. Your voice, encapsulated in the words on the pages, can continue to inspire, challenge, and transform long after you’re gone.

If fear is holding you back, let it be the fuel that propels you forward. Start small—write one word, then another. Commit to your message, embrace your unique voice, and remember that there’s no better time to write your book than now.

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.