333: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Vulnerability | Lydia Fenet

Lydia Fenet on Building Confidence

In this episode of Authors Who Lead, I welcome Lydia Fenet, an accomplished author and CEO of Lydia Fenet Agency, for an enlightening discussion on the interplay between confidence, writing, and life’s unexpected challenges. Our conversation offers profound insights for aspiring writers and anyone striving to carve their path with determination and resilience.

Path to Authorship: A Tale of Two Books

Lydia Fenet’s journey as an author began with her debut, “The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You,” published in 2019. Written during an optimistic time, this book encapsulates an energetic and empowering tone.

In contrast, her latest work, “Claim Your Confidence,” emerged amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This period demanded a deeper narrative, drawing upon more relatable and realistic experiences. Lydia’s shift in writing style, influenced by the pandemic, underscores the necessity of adaptability and the power of acceptance and vulnerability in storytelling.

Overcoming Impostor Syndrome: The SLAM Approach

The episode touches upon a common challenge among authors: impostor syndrome. I introduce a practical acronym, SLAM, to combat this pervasive feeling of disbelief in one’s abilities:

Stop: Halt the self-doubt that prevents seizing opportunities.

Listen: Absorb feedback constructively.

Accept: Internalize that achievements don’t require external validation.

Make your point: Stand firm in your convictions while being open to change if necessary.

Lydia Fenet expounds on her bouts with impostor syndrome, sharing how these principles helped her build and maintain her confidence. This discussion provides a roadmap for writers and professionals to navigate their fears and trust in their capabilities.

Writing through Life’s Trials: Building Resilience

Both Lydia and I reflect on how personal adversities have shaped their writing processes. Lydia recounts the impactful story of a car accident involving her family, which became a pivotal chapter in her book. The severe injuries, particularly her fractured spine, brought forth a profound lesson in resilience and community. This experience, although painful, reinforced the belief that strength often arises from our darkest moments.

I support this notion, stating that confidence is not built solely by success but by enduring and overcoming failures. We both emphasize that these trials should be harnessed as creative fuel, propelling writers through their journey.

Practical Writing Advice: Perseverance over Perfection

When it comes to the craft of writing, both Lydia and I share actionable advice. Lydia’s panic attack after signing her book contract led her to adopt a structured writing approach. She set a goal of 1,000 words per day, implementing a system that allowed flexibility to manage both high and low-productivity days. With a target of 60,000 words in 60 days, she used this method to conquer the overwhelming task of writing a book.

My approach is similarly rooted in discipline. I aim for 1,680 words daily, viewing my manuscript as raw material to be shaped later. This methodology encourages writers to get words on paper without becoming bogged down by the pursuit of perfection. We advocate for treating daily experiences as potential content and being receptive to the ideas and input of others.

Creating in Public Spaces: Embracing Unconventional Writing Habits

Interestingly, both Lydia and I thrive in environments that challenge conventional notions of writing solitude. Lydia prefers the hustle and bustle of public places, which despite being an extrovert, she finds stimulating for creativity. On the contrary, I, an introvert, deliberately place myself in social settings to glean energy and inspiration. Our shared rejection of the stereotype that writers must isolate themselves showcases the diversity in successful writing habits.

Living Authentically: Confidence Beyond Writing

Beyond the realm of writing, Lydia’s philosophy on leading an authentic life resonates deeply. She believes in living aligned with personal desires, unfettered by other people’s perceptions. Her transformative experience after a car accident and subsequent writing process underscores the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.

Lydia leaves listeners with a message of empowerment—confidence, and resilience are cultivated through stepping outside comfort zones and embracing life’s unpredictable hurdles. Whether you’re an aspiring writer or striving to conquer personal challenges, Lydia Fenet’s journey offers valuable lessons in self-belief and determination.

Authors Who Lead continue to deliver potent discussions filled with undeniable truths and practical advice. Lydia Fenet’s episode is a testament to the true essence of confidence: it’s not about having all the answers, but about being willing to ask the questions, take the steps, and write your story, one vulnerable, resilient moment at a time.

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.