The Successful Author Mindset by Joanna Penn

Being a writer is not just about typing.

It’s also about surviving the roller-coaster of the creative journey.

Self-doubt, fear of failure, the need for validation, perfectionism, writer’s block, comparisonitis, overwhelm, and much more. When you’re going through these things, it can feel like you’re alone. But actually, they are part of the creative process, and every author goes through them too.

This book collects the mindset issues that writers experience, that I have been through myself over the last ten years and that perhaps you will experience at different times on the creative journey.

Each small chapter tackles a possible issue and then offers an antidote, so that you can dip in and out over time. It includes excerpts from my own personal journals as well as quotes from well-known writers. I hope it helps you on the road to becoming a successful author.

The book includes:

Part 1: Mindset Aspects of Creativity and Writing

Self-doubt and imposter syndrome
Need for validation
Fear of failure
Fear of rejection and criticism
Your inner critic
Fear of judgment
Perfectionism
Writer’s block and procrastination
“I’m not creative. I don’t have any ideas”
“My writing isn’t original”
“Why write? There are too many books in the world already”
“I don’t have the time or self-discipline to write”
“I’m not finding writing much fun. It’s hard work.”
“I keep starting things and not finishing them”
Dealing with friends, family and writer’s groups
“How do I find my voice?”
Comparisonitis or “Everyone is better than me”

Part 2: Mindset Aspects after Publishing

Anti-climax and creative dissatisfaction
What is your definition of success?
What happens when you tell people that you’re an author?
“I’m overwhelmed”
Dealing with fans, authenticity and drawing the line
Haters gonna hate
Ambition, fame and fortune
Giving up

Part 3: Tips for Success on the Author Journey

Know thyself
Understand and hone your creative process
Develop professional habits
Manage professional relationships
Take control of your writing career
Find your community
Keep learning
Schedule rest and take time off
Think long term. Create a body of work