Dealing With Insecurities as a Black Writer

How I overcome insecurities as a black writer.

For as long as I can remember I've always been a writer. I've been writing poetry and short stories since I was nine and everything that I write is usually heartfelt and sincere. Currently, I work as a storyteller content writer for a website called Adoption.com, and I thoroughly enjoy it. However, there are doubts that come to my mind especially when it comes to writing proficiently.

I worry about normal things that all writers worry about like grammar, structure, prose, and how the words come together. And honestly, most of the time when I write it feels like I'm writing mush. Being a woman of color also while trying to establish myself as a writer is hard. I tend to read a lot of writing books to learn how to become a better writer. I also learned a lot of tips from my editors and other writers.

No matter how much I try, I never feel completely inadequate to my other storytelling colleagues. There are days that absolutely feel like giving up on writing but deep down I know it's one of my greatest gifts. When these thoughts come to my mind I try to think positive. As silly and cliche as that sounds, it helps. But for some practical tips, here's what I've learned when it comes to insecurities when it comes to writing.

Realize that no one can think or say things quite as you can, and it's okay to share your feelings

When it comes to writing, everyone has something to say. The difference is that no one can say it like you can. What I mean is that nobody can read what's on your mind, and say it the way you know how to. I like to use my words in a heartfelt way. So whatever emotion I'm feeling, I tend to write it out and use it to let others know that they're not alone with how they feel.

Use Your Words to Connect With People

I use my words to connect with others. Being an introvert at heart, I've never been great with talking, but I've always excelled with writing. People love reading what I have to say, and they love that I share my stories. One thing I've learned about being a storyteller is that people love a good story, and feel like they have something in common with what they read. Whether heartfelt, informal, or technical, use your words to engage with others.

Get All Your Words Out on Paper, and Revise Them

When I write, 98% of the time I don't love the finished product. That's why it's great to revise. If I don't like how I worded something, I think of creative ways to change what I wrote. It helps to get rid of all the brain mush in my mind so I can fully focus on creating a masterpiece out of that mush. Revising can be a bit of a process at first, but it'll be a beautiful thing once you've felt like you've done your best.

Read, Listen, and Ask for Advice

They say to be a better writer, you should be an avid reader and writer. Read what inspires you, and don’t hesitate to ask other writers for help. I’ve only been writing professionally for a year now, and I’m still learning so much from editors and writers. I struggle with grammar, and my editor suggested using the app called Grammarly. Whatever you’re insecure about, the advice from editors and other writers can be beneficial for you.

Find What You’re Passionate About

What are your passions? What gets you excited, and is something you can’t stop thinking about? Writing about your passions helps creativity, and can keep you motivated and on task.

Never Give Up

If writing is something you see yourself doing, please don't give up. The journey of becoming an established writer can be tough and frustrating. You might not feel like you're any good, but stay focused. Take some writing classes, set aside time just to focus on writing, and realize just what kind of writer you dream of being. When doubts creep up on you, face them and prove that you're good enough by staying dedicated to your craft.

You're a good writer. Insecurities about my writing still come up from time to time, but I try my very best to stay focused on becoming a better writer. I use my insecurities as motivation to prove to myself that I can be great and can make even more great content. If you use your insecurities as your own motivation, you too can show the world that you're something great too.

Dealing With Insecurities as a Black Writer was originally published in CRY Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.