Every writer has moments of doubt. Whether you're staring at a blank page, questioning your talent, or feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of success, know this—you’re not alone. Doubt is a natural part of the creative process, but the difference between success and failure is pushing through those moments and continuing to write.
As we mark the 25th day of Black History Month, it’s important to acknowledge the resilience of Black writers who faced systemic barriers, yet still forged paths in literature, journalism, and poetry. Their perseverance against all odds is a testament to the power of persistence. Their stories remind us that pushing through doubt isn’t just a step in writing—it’s a step in shaping history.
The Reality of Writer’s Doubt
Writer’s doubt can take many forms:
Imposter Syndrome – Feeling like you’re not talented enough, despite accomplishments.
Fear of Failure – Worrying that no one will read or appreciate your work.
Comparing Yourself to Others – Looking at successful writers and thinking you’ll never measure up.
Perfectionism – Believing that your first draft needs to be flawless.
Creative Blocks – Feeling stuck, uninspired, or unable to move forward.
While these doubts can feel overwhelming, they are not roadblocks—they are opportunities to grow and improve.
How Black Writers Have Overcome Doubt
Many legendary Black writers have dealt with doubt, yet they persevered and changed the literary world. Their stories inspire us to keep going, no matter the obstacles.
1. Maya Angelou – The Power of Persistence
Maya Angelou, the author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, once admitted, “I have written eleven books, but each time I think, ‘Uh-oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’”
Even someone as accomplished as Angelou experienced imposter syndrome, but she kept writing. Her words became a source of strength for generations. Lesson: Keep going, even when you doubt yourself.
2. James Baldwin – Writing Through the Pain
Baldwin faced immense personal and societal struggles. Rejected by publishers early in his career, he moved to France to escape racism in the U.S. Yet, he never stopped writing, producing groundbreaking works like The Fire Next Time and Go Tell It on the Mountain.
Baldwin’s advice? “You write in order to change the world.” Even when doubt creeps in, remember that your words have power.
3. Toni Morrison – Trusting Your Voice
Toni Morrison didn’t publish her first novel, The Bluest Eye, until she was nearly 40. She worked as an editor and mother while writing in the early mornings before her children woke up. She could have given up, but she didn’t. She trusted her voice and changed literature forever.
Lesson: It’s never too late to start. Your voice matters, and the world needs your story.
Practical Steps to Overcome Writer’s Doubt
Now that we’ve looked at how some of the greatest writers have pushed through doubt, here are some practical ways you can do the same.
1. Acknowledge Your Doubts – Then Write Anyway
Doubt doesn’t mean you’re not a writer—it means you’re human. Instead of letting doubt stop you, write through it. Set small, manageable goals, such as writing 300 words a day, to keep momentum going.
2. Find a Writing Routine That Works for You
Consistency is key. Whether you write every morning, at night, or during lunch breaks, having a routine will help silence the voice of doubt.
3. Silence the Inner Critic – First Drafts Don’t Need to Be Perfect
Many writers feel stuck because they want every sentence to be perfect. Your first draft is just a draft—let it be messy. Editing comes later.
4. Surround Yourself with a Supportive Community
Join a writing group, find a mentor, or connect with other writers who understand your journey. Encouragement from fellow creatives can push you past doubt.
5. Remember Why You Started
When doubt creeps in, go back to the why behind your writing. What made you pick up the pen in the first place? Reconnect with your passion.
How S.O.L.A.D.™ Came to Be – My Own Journey Through Writer’s Doubt
I know firsthand what it means to struggle with doubt. When I started writing S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™, I questioned everything—Was the story good enough? Would people care about these characters? Could I even finish an entire book?
But I pushed forward. I wrote through the doubt, trusting the story that had been placed in my heart by God. Today, S.O.L.A.D.™ isn’t just a book, it's two books and it’s a movement, an inspiring world, i'm continuing to build upon, where faith, courage, and resilience shine through. If I had let doubt stop me, I never would have reached this point, in which I am currently working on books 3 and 4 and have more books in the series planned.
So if you’re doubting yourself today, let me tell you: Your story is worth writing. Keep going.
Final Thoughts – Keep Pushing Forward
Every great writer has doubted themselves at some point. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t? They didn’t let doubt win.
As we honor Black History Month, remember that the voices we celebrate today weren’t always confident—they just refused to quit. You, too, have the power to keep writing, keep pushing, and keep making your mark.
What’s your strategy for overcoming writer’s doubt? Share in the comments!
Happy writing, and see you next time for another Tony Tips Tuesdays!
Looking for an inspiring, action-packed read? Check out my novels in the S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™: The Angelo™ and Angeline™ Chronicles. Autographed copies are available at www.tyronetonyreedjr.com/the-shop. Dive into a world where light battles darkness, and heroes are born through courage and faith. Thank you for your support!
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