As a debut author, the joy of uploading your first novel to bookstores is overwhelming! I will also admit, there is fear in putting words and effort bundled into a story out in the world. While I have encountered positive feedback so far, the masses might be more critical. I understand this is part of being a published author, but it can also be difficult to move past. The question is whether I will eventually stop feeling this way?

At the beginning of this writing journey 2 years ago, I read that creating a vision board is a good way to achieve goals. So, in a time where I was just beginning to explore what it was to be a writer, I created a picture/board about being a published author. It is still pinned to my wall, just above my computer monitors. At that time, I had difficulty talking about my writing and wouldn’t tell anyone I was a budding author. I had barely written anything and certainly hadn’t published a fiction novel before. Now, just under two weeks from the launch date of my book, can I say that I am an author?

As the picture says, cue the confetti, because the book I have loved and poured my heart into, is finally going out into the world. I AM happy that the day is finally in sight! Deep breaths all around! It is happening! I want to smile and tell you the bliss outweighs the anxiety, but I also don’t want to lie. Thankfully, the overarching emotion about this project does go back and forth. If it didn’t, I wouldn’t go through with publication.

Whoh, this post has gotten dark and real. I wanted to put this out there, because I don’t think I am the only one. Other authors talk about imposter syndrome, so I know I am not alone. This knowledge helps. To this point, I found a really good article on Writer’s Edit about imposter syndrome in authors that may help if you are also experiencing these feelings.