Beat the Negativity!

[kitty_fic]

When you hear that little voice telling you that you're not a good writer or everything you're doing is wrong. How do you combat that?

I've had several friends tell me that their writing has been crippled by negative thoughts and attitude.

What do you do when you start to compare yourself to others or have that niggling voice in the back of your mind telling you that you can't do it?

What are some things you have done or can do to quiet that negativity and push forward with a positive attitude?


“Comparison is the thief of joy.” ~Dwight Edwards

Comments

[halesmoon.livejournal.com]

This is exactly what I do too. I have certain people whose opinions I really trust and when I'm feeling down about my writing, I know I can ask them to honestly review it and give me their opinion. Nine times out of ten, I'm making a big deal out of nothing, or just need minor adjustments to get the ball rolling again.

Sometimes, I also reread comments to fic I've already posted. A couple of my stories got truly wonderful reviews, and reading those is always a nice boost in confidence.

[sara-holmes.livejournal.com]

But not everyone has the stomach for honest feedback, which is how bad writers stay bad.

*nods* I think giving feedback is an art in itself. So hard to hit the mark on 'constructive criticism,' especially if you don't know how the writer may react.