One of the biggest challenges in writing is quieting the negative self-talk that can paralyze creativity. Below are 25 common thoughts that often surface—followed by a method I’ve discovered that helps combat these discouraging messages.

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Why I tell myself I shouldn’t write today:

1. I am boring, and so is my life.
2. Why would anybody care about what I’m writing?
3. I’m wasting my time. I’ll never make money doing this.
4. I have nothing to write about. I’m blank.
5. I’m not a good writer—why am I bothering?
6. My family is complaining they need me; I should be more attentive.
7. I’m kidding myself that this makes any sense.
8. Other people give me that look that says, “Who do you think you’re kidding? You’ll only fail at this.”
9. I would write, but there are so many other important things that need my attention.
10. I’m too lazy for this; writing must be for other people, not me.
11. If I were really a writer, this would come so much easier. Real writers don’t struggle as much as I do.
12. The world doesn’t need another bad writer. I should do something that actually makes the world better.
13. If God meant me to be a writer, I’d have known much earlier and gone to school for writing—not business or social work, etc.
14. Nobody is reading anymore, so why bother?
15. I’ll never be published. Have you seen the mess publishing is in?
16. Every time people read my work, I reveal just how stupid I really am.
17. If it’s not perfect, I shouldn’t send it out… and it’s never perfect.
18. If I were smart, I’d be reading instead. That’s how you learn—even about writing.
19. I’m not smart enough, talented enough, disciplined enough, good enough to write anything worth reading.
20. Why can’t I just relax and let this writing thing die?
21. People will judge me by my writing, maybe even use it against me.
22. I’ll just be one more person who failed at this writing game—or worse, who keeps on trying and making a fool of myself.
23. Life is too short for this angst. I should let my writing goals go.
24. I’m sitting too much while writing; I should stop and do something physical.
25. I’m never going to make a real name for myself with writing. Maybe I should focus on something else.

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How to Combat Negative Self-Talk

Set a timer, pick up your notebook or computer, and make a list of your own negative messages. Then, as Dr. Daniel Amen suggests, challenge these automatic negative thoughts (ANTS) by asking: Is this 100% true?

For example, to the claim, “My life is boring and nobody wants to read about it,” I might ask:
“Is it true my life is 100% boring?”

My honest answer: “Well, no. I have a few interesting moments.”

Next question: “Is it possible people enjoy reading about everyday occurrences?”

Answer: “Yes. I like reading about ordinary life. Others probably do, too.”

Suddenly, the statement “My life is boring” loses its power. Instead, I might say, “It’s true some people may find my life boring, but others may not.” That shift makes me far more inclined to write.

You can try this approach, too. It really works.

In the meantime, you’ll be writing, building your creative muscles, and discovering positive approaches to healthier, happier living.

Please add any other ways you’ve found to combat negative thoughts—whether in writing or in life. I’d love to hear them.

Happy writing… or just plain living!