Aya Collective Publishing

Written by Ebony Aya

Sometimes, we get in our own way when we write. We start to doubt our creativity, our capacity, even our intelligence. Sometimes that doubt shows up early, short-circuiting our ability to move from idea to completed work. We start over-editing every sentence, searching for the “perfect” word to replace the one we feel we’ve already used a thousand times. And then — we get stuck.

I’m not talking about writer’s block. I’m talking about emotional stuckness — the heavy kind that slows us down and eventually stalls our process.

Other times, doubt creeps in later, once we’re nearing the end of a draft. We wonder if what we’ve written even makes sense. Would anyone ever read this? Is it relevant — especially in a world that feels like it’s crumbling? And if not the whole world, at least our own lives. What does a completed project even matter if the future feels so uncertain? we ask ourselves.

Or we chase an ever-elusive idea of perfection, believing that only when the writing is perfect can we accept it — and, deeper still, accept ourselves.

Can you relate? Have you ever experienced this kind of doubt — the kind that sidetracks you, saps your energy, and keeps you from completing a project you once felt so passionate about?

You’re not alone. I’ve met so many writers at every stage who have struggled with these same feelings.

Here are a few ways you can move through the doubt and embrace a deeper truth: that your writing is not just good enough — it’s absolutely necessary.

1. Remember Your Why

Why did you start writing in the first place?

Maybe, like me, you always wanted to be a writer. I remember being captivated by the TV show Ghostwriter as a kid. I wanted to write prolifically — to inspire others and to find fulfillment through words. That desire stayed with me, on and off, through my teenage years, until I finally committed to writing consistently at 22 — now twenty years ago.

But your “why” might be different. Maybe you want to tell a good story, document your family’s history, research an important topic, or simply create for the love of language itself.

Whatever your reason, remember your why. Let it ground you when doubt tries to take over.

2. Visualize Completion

If you’re struggling with questions like Will anyone read this? or Am I even a real poet? or Is this even relevant?, try visualizing what success looks like on the other side of your project.

Who will read your words?
Whose lives might be touched, encouraged, or changed because you completed this work?
What new possibilities might open — for you, for your readers, for the world?

Yes, sales and recognition can be a part of success. And they’re worthy goals. But I encourage you to think bigger.

My writing over the last 20 years has led not only to book sales but to life-changing opportunities — opportunities I wouldn’t have had if I hadn’t honored the call to write. Writing has shaped my career, my relationships, and my own growth. That, too, is success.

3. Affirm the Truth About You and Your Work

Take a moment to name the negative thoughts swirling around in your mind about your writing. Write them down.

Then, for each negative statement, write at least two positive affirmations that tell a deeper truth.
Write those affirmations on a new sheet of paper — only the positive ones — and post them somewhere you’ll see them when you write.

Let those affirmations reframe your mind, remind you of your power, and keep you anchored in truth.

4. Invite Supportive Eyes

You might worry that showing your work to someone else will only confirm your doubts. But the key here is choosing the right person — someone you trust to be thoughtful, helpful, and encouraging.

This is not the time for harsh critics or pessimists. There will be time for tough edits later.
Right now, you need someone who will offer constructive feedback and remind you of your why.

5. Begin Again

Seriously. Pick up the pen. Open the laptop. Keep going.

And if you’ve finished your first draft, move to the next stage: work with a publisher who believes in your vision and will walk with you through the next steps.

Consider partnering with Aya Collective Publishing — where we believe your words matter, and we are committed to helping bring them into the world.

You — and your writing — are needed.