The Imposter Syndrome In Blogging

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“Write without pay until somebody offers to pay.” – Mark Twain

The was originally published on 5/3/2023. Heads up – you may have already read this.

On a recent podcast, Dan Harris was telling a story about when he suggested to his wife, a physician who graduated top in her class from a prestigious medical school and has practiced at some of the best teaching hospitals, that she might suffer from Imposter’s Syndrome. His wife’s response made me laugh out loud. Dan said it was something like “It’s interesting that some other people felt like that but I really AM an imposter.”

This Ten Percent Happier podcast with Dr. Valerie Young, an expert on the syndrome for more than 40 years, is fascinating for their deep dive in Imposter Syndrome or “feeling like a fraud, despite evidence to the contrary.” She also noted that some areas are more susceptible to this kind of thinking and being creative is one of them. According to Dr. Young, “when you are in a creative field, you are only as good as your last book or your last performance.”

Or, to expand on the professor’s point — your last blog post. That really resonated with me. Here’s why I think that.

I didn’t go to school for it.

In my professional life, I’m an expert in Microsoft collaboration software – things like creating structure and process about where people put and find their files, and workflow (e.g. how do I submit something for approval?).

Does my electrical engineering degree have any bearing on that? No. Outside of some basic troubleshooting and thinking skills, there isn’t any relationship between my degree and what I do now. I could draw a similarly loose relationship between the writing classes and I took in college and writing now, but I wouldn’t ever call myself an expert because….

Writing has been around a long time.

Writing has been around for about 5,500 years. I’m pulling that number from this delightful Psychology Today article about The Evolution of the Written Word. It’s a lot easier to feel like I know a good deal about collaborative software even though it changes daily and I’m always have to look something up. But writing? Well, there’s been Shakespeare, Fitzgerald, Garcia Marquez, Rushdie, and Hemingway and just typing that list makes me remember all that I don’t even know about the great writers, much less about writing.

No one pays me to write

For whatever I do and do not know about Microsoft software, I’ve been able to make a living out of a career providing consulting services around it. I’ve even published a couple of technical books, some of the least profitable parts of my career, which doesn’t bode well for me making a living from writing. But no one pays me to write, or at least not that I’ve managed to figure out yet, which makes me lack in the most basic form of transactional affirmation.

For some people, and I’m thinking of my colleague, Jack Canfora, who have made a go of writing as a career, the mantel of a writer seems to fit a lot better. Which affirms my inclination to think of myself as just a hobbyist.

And yet…

So why persist as a writer? Because writing feels more meaningful than any single consulting project I’ve ever done. Because writing requires me to dig deep and put myself out there is a way that is not required with computer consulting. Because writing about life creates a goodness in my experience that increases my enjoyment in life.

Here’s what I’ve concluded. Sure, sometimes (or a lot of times), I feel like an imposter as a writer and I know I’m not alone in that feeling. But every one who lives their authentic words out on paper can’t be an imposter to their experience. Any one who has hit the word “publish” has indeed created something. No one who uses words to create feelings in others and communicate should suffer from the distinction that others may have done it better. All who bleed, figuratively speaking, to put themselves out there should be proud of the effort.

What about you? Do you feel like you’ve suffered from Imposter Syndrome as a creative? What have you done to combat it?

(featured photo from Pexels)

73 thoughts on “The Imposter Syndrome In Blogging”

  1. Your “imposter” identification might pass with time. The price? Get older and sometimes age reduces the amount of time you spend on the possibility others are evaluating you negatively.

    You might want to give a go at some of the Stoic philosophers like Marcus Aurelius. The imposter syndrome has been around forever and they knew it.

    Whatever you think you are faking, Wynne, you certainly fool me every time!

    Liked by 5 people

      1. You may feel as though you are an imposter, but your skills are very real to us all, and you are helping people in the real world!

        Liked by 1 person

  2. I’m with Dr. Stein…I find I’m less and less afflicted with concerns about the opinions of others and any wavering in confidence I’ve experienced in life has almost always been from the outside-in – allowing myself to be bounced around by prevailing winds, words. 😉

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Hi Victoria, I think that you are less afflicted by the opinions of others is a wonderful characteristic that would be wonderful to share. I think many people allow themselves to be concerned and influenced by people whom in my thinking are not “invested”. I told my children not to worry about the opinion of anyone who didn’t know when their birthday was and wouldn’t come to their rescue if they needed help. They are both wonderful citizens and I’m proud of them and independent in their choices.

      Liked by 2 people

      1. Thanks for all of that, Dave — I love how you’ve given that gift to your children. “Not invested” is a perfect what to build a buffer. Love that! 🥰

        Liked by 2 people

  3. Good morning Wynne, I can see why you tagged this with authenticity, confidence and creativity. I was terrible at philosophy so stayed clear but I remember a friend telling that one of her classes dealt with the lack of originality to be found anywhere. This was in the 70’s but it stuck (obviously).

    I suppose that everything I write, and think has seeds from elsewhere but does that mean it’s not original? Even recipes that I find and follow are never done exactly the same as I’m just not that precise (why I don’t bake lol) and so any quiche or salad I make are going to different from any other I make.

    I think you are an original Wynne and your walk has been different from any other and your thoughts are your own. Even if you had a clone they wouldn’t be you or have your experiences.

    Thank you for sharing your experiences, for writing, and making your own recipes per se; as I look out my window to the blue skies of dawn this morning – I am glad for the unique Wynne.

    Liked by 2 people

  4. Oh my, this one hit home Wynne! I always feel this way especially before I hit the publish button. It’s interesting to me that this is common for creatives. I think you have a fabulously authentic voice and take on life. Keep writing. We love you! It’s real. Hugs, C

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Oh, I’m in such good company if you feel it too, Cheryl! I thought it was interesting that it was common for creatives too. I’m grateful for your encouragement — and your wonderful and authentic voice, Cheryl!! ❤ ❤ ❤

      Liked by 1 person

  5. Wynne, thank you for voicing exactly how I feel! How do I combat it? Like others have commented, the older I get, the less I consider the opinions of others. But the more I write, the more I want to write, and the ideas just keep coming. Like Pablo Casals said, at 80, when asked why he practices his cello every day, “Because I think I am making progress.” Keep writing for the pure enjoyment of it – we enjoy reading it!

    Liked by 4 people

    1. Wise words from Pablo Casals, I’ll add to them Bertrand Russell’s “The fundamental cause of the trouble is that in the modern world the stupid are cocksure, while the intelligent are full of doubt.”

      Doesn’t that summarize things nicely (and hopefully gives you a little boost and a smile)?

      Liked by 3 people

  6. Oh, so many things to dive into here Wynne. It’s such a great post. First, anyone who tells you they’re an expert at writing is a fool. Secondly, how many books do have published? At least two that I know of? (You need to make a plug for your book Finding My Father’s Faith!!!!) Um, that means you’re a published writer. But yes, I get that fear of being an imposter. I think we all feel it. I think it’s procrastination and our human fears fighting us, but you beat back that monster every time you’re willing to be vulnerable and put your thoughts/feelings/stories down in your blog or down on paper. Keep on writing.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Ah, Brian – you make some good points. You’re right – I have three books published. Not sure why I discount all that. 🙂 But I’m so glad you feel it as well because that means I’m in very good company.

      And “beat back that monster every time you’re willing to be vulnerable and put your thoughts/feelings/stories down in your blog or down on paper. Keep on writing.” That’s so good! No wonder you are so good at capturing hearts and minds!! Thanks, my friend!! ❤ ❤ ❤

      Liked by 1 person

  7. Wynne, even though I write from time to time I don’t consider myself a writer at all. I guess I leave that title to those who do it to earn money and/or earn a living at it. It’s just a hobby for me too, so I don’t take it all that seriously. I think writing is a great outlet, especially if you’re doing it for yourself first and foremost. I’m not a big awards person either when it comes to creative outlets. Voting that one person’s work is better than another’s? No, I’d rather just enjoy what each person writes without having to rank or score their effort versus someone else’s contributions. Here’s to writing, in all its “shapes and sizes.”🙂

    Liked by 1 person

  8. I currently am not writing for money, yet most of my career I was. I don’t feel like an imposter and I enjoy writing what I want to write now, rather than assignments. Great post!

    Liked by 1 person

  9. What about you? Do you feel like you’ve suffered from Imposter Syndrome as a creative? What have you done to combat it?

    I didn’t come out as Creative until I was over 40 so by then I’d learned to trust myself and how I did things. Never felt like an Imposter, more like a Newbie ready to learn everything. Great questions.

    Liked by 1 person

  10. Isn’t it funny that we only find value in writing if it’s validated by the almighty dollar, or by millions of readers? In my first few years of blogging, I remember an online conversation with a fellow blogger who, at the time worked at a newspaper, when he told me that merely having the desire to write and putting down thoughts (writing my blog) made me a writer. Have I ever sold my writing? Not yet. Will I ever write a novel? Not likely. My blog is more of a public journal. But writing is an important part of my life as a creative outlet, as it is yours. I truly believe anyone with a passion to write is a writer.

    Liked by 1 person

  11. Your fantastic post gets me on different levels. First, when you said “… writing feels more meaningful than any single consulting project I’ve ever done.” That jumped out at me. I’ve felt the same way when finishing writing projects. They’re deeply meaningful, more so than my client work of graphic design.

    Then, as you discussed Imposter Syndrome — that got to me, too. I feel that frequently while writing. Advice from a friend was helpful in how I approach it…. I “sit” with my self-doubt and have a conversation with it. That’s different than trying to “conquer” it. I try to understand where it’s coming from. Self-doubt is at the root of my Imposter Syndrome. Self-doubt causes me to worry about looking foolish to others. Which is a way of telling me how much I care about my writing.

    I’ve come to view self-doubt as part of my process of creating. I’ve come to respect it as a part of me. And I’ve become better at comforting the self-doubt, saying “It’s been all right before. It’ll be all right again. Trust me.”

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Oh Dave, there’s so much to love about your comment. Love the part of sitting with the self-doubt and conversing with it. And your mantra to comfort it? So good! I’m so glad I’m in good company since you also find writing more meaningful than these other projects!

      Liked by 1 person

  12. Wynne, your post made me think deeply about writing.
    I first started writing on Facebook. I would write anecdotes, descriptions of my experience as a teacher and my travels, what I saw on my walks, and just about anything I found interesting in my day-to-day life. My family and friends liked my efforts in writing and encouraged me to keep writing. Three years ago, my cousin gifted me a blog and said that I should use the blog to publish my write-ups and poems.
    Once I started publishing on my blog, I got nothing but encouragement from my family, friends, and the wonderful blogging community.
    I don’t consider myself a writer at all, nor do I feel like an imposter. I write from my heart and only when I am inspired to do so. And because I immensely enjoy putting my heartfelt feelings into words and sharing my wonderment about our lovely world and the interesting people I meet.
    Likes and comments are a bonus!
    Lots of love to you and the little ones.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ah, Chaya. Love hearing your journey as a writer.

      And this, ” I write from my heart and only when I am inspired to do so. And because I immensely enjoy putting my heartfelt feelings into words and sharing my wonderment about our lovely world and the interesting people I meet.” That sentiment expressed so well shows what a terrific writer you are.

      Thank you, my friend!

      Liked by 1 person

  13. Oh, this is so good, Wynne! I love the idea that if we’re being true to ourselves, we can’t be an imposter. If writing is a practice, the key is to keep showing up and learning as we go. I used to feel like a huge imposter and get hung up on the smallest things. When I began writing simply because I enjoyed it, rather than for an audience, it was easier to stop caring about others’ opinions or a down-the-line payday.

    Liked by 1 person

  14. I remember this original post, Wynne, and I think my comment now is the same as then. Imposter syndrome is the worst feeling in the world, especially when starting a new role and trying to establish relationships with new team members. But I always remind myself and others feeling the same, you have the credentials and experience to back it up.

    I’m glad you found your way to writing. Sometimes, often times actually, it is the creative pursuits that fulfill us the most. And I can see that so clearly in your writing.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Ah, the comfort of a good friend. Thank you, Ab. I’d add that knowing that I can string some words together and be seen definitely makes it worth it.

      And you’re right about Imposter Syndrome and reminding ourselves that others feel the same. Yes!

      Liked by 1 person

  15. I happen to like Maya Angelou’s quote which suggests that you do the best you can and that when you know better, do better. I think it takes away the sting of feeling like being an imposter, and instead links it with being a student.

    Liked by 1 person

  17. Lovely post and intriguing topic, Wynne! 💞💞💞 I struggle with Imposter Syndrome in most areas of my life…not just my writing. I just keep doing the best I can, and hope someday I can actually feel like I’m not just pretending.

    Liked by 1 person

  18. Oh my, this hit home. I find myself stating frequently that “I don’t have the credentials”, especially when it comes to my art.

    Liked by 1 person

  20. FWIW, I’ve never been paid to consult about Microsoft software, but I still use it every day. I think the world keeps spinning because there is a nice balance of writers and software consultants out there.

    Liked by 1 person

  21. It took a long time for me to refer to myself as a writer, Wynne. One of the definitions of writer on dictionary.com that I love is “A person who commits their thoughts, ideas, etc. to writing.” Isn’t that what we all do with our blogs? If I ever feel imposter system creeping in, I remind myself that I do this mostly to develop my skills and tell my stories so it’s all good!

    Liked by 1 person

  22. Nice ideas. Anyone that writes, be it letters, emails or blog post and short stories may very well be an imposter. I worry about plagiarizing our great authors. There are words and phrases that have been used over the years by Steinbeck, Hemingway, Twain and others, so we are bound to use in some form, the same sentences and ideas. I tell stories about growing up in Texas and Texana history with all it’s ripping yarns. A Dichos might be better suited.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Oh, such a good point about how many phrases have entered our awareness, possibly without us even knowing when we repurpose them. Your stories sound wonderful, Phil! Thanks for commenting!

      Liked by 1 person

  23. Very thought provoking. I suffer from Imposter Syndrome all the time. While I was never trained as a teacher, I spent a career teaching preschool (degree not required), where creativity was key. I did some side gig work with a home accessories company, advising customers (what do I know?–I’m just a mom), I’ve dabbled in painting (how do all you guys know what to paint?) Now that I am blogging, I don’t know beans about it. But, I try to turn off those voices in my head and say ” I’ll give it a go and see what happens.” Since it’s a hobby, it won’t really matter if it fails. But, I do care.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I love your willingness to try, Gwen. “I’ll give it a go and see what happens.” I don’t think we can ask for anything better than to just start. Seems like you have done marvelously at it all!

      Like

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  27. A few years back I had told my boss that I wanted to step down as a manager, and that I had another job offer. I was hoping to do coding again. He opened up an IT architecture position, which I was not qualified for. No training as an architect whatsoever, no formal schooling, I did the best I could do. I was an imposter, but a willing and committed one. Needless to say, after a couple years my facade crumbled me, now I do coding. I gravitated to the comfortable pool. But, I don’t think I was terrible as an architect, and I learned I could rise to the challenge. We never really know what we are capable of until we try, with effort.

    Liked by 1 person

  29. I was chatting with a couple of people I did not know well about a strange and amusing circumstance we had just experienced. That familiar phrase came out ‘You could write a book!’ Then I realised I had written a book, more than several. ‘I’m a writer’ is one of the hardest sentences to utter.

    Liked by 1 person

  31. Remarkable, enticing, incredible and thought provoking blog post Wynne. Firstly, this post contains all the tips and turns related to writing whether creatively, in a fictional way or a storytelling way.

    Secondly, there is just so much wisdom in this post and I would love to unpack it now. I believe, I as a Blogger and Writer who writes educational and compelling content about the subject of “Fashion and style” targeting men, I am not an IMPOSTER at all because no Writer writes the way I do. All written work I do is mine and the way my blog is created, it provides detailed information and easy tips for helping men dress better. Also, to show I am not a Fake or Imposter Writer, I always denote all blog posts I published with the copyright label that is ©, this is a representation of the Author’s work.

    Lastly, I believe I am a great Writer and I am not at all gloating about my skill but I love to write and I have a passion for blogging about this one subject that is “Fashion and style” since I believe as a man dressing the part is a form of good manners and what better way to look decent as a man than by dressing proper. My blog is a work of art with master advice and tips for men on how they can dress better. Plus, I have written a book and my second one is coming mid June since I have sent my work to the Genius Word Official Publishers.

    A very debatable post overall Wynne✨👏👏. Have a great weekend🙏

    Liked by 1 person

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