You’re Not a Fraud, You’re a Writer

Learning to Create Through Doubt, Fear, and Self-Criticism

Jun 09, 2025

You’d think that bestselling authors, award-winners, and long-time creatives would have left imposter syndrome behind years ago. But as Pamela Cook explores in this very special solo episode of Writes4Women, the truth is: we all wrestle with that nasty inner voice sometimes.

Whether you’re midway through your first draft or looking down the barrel of a new creative season, imposter syndrome can show up loud, unexpected, and cruel. But it doesn’t have to stop us.

🎧 In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Pamela revisits past podcast guests—including Holly Ringland, Eliza Henry-Jones, Nikki Gemmell, Natasha Lester, Cassie Hamer, Sophie Green, and Megan Dalla-Camina—to ask the big question:

“Why do we write—even when it feels like we shouldn’t?”

If you’ve been questioning your creative worth lately, this episode is like a warm cuppa and a hug from your writing self.

Here are the top three takeaways from Pam’s exploration of imposter syndrome:

1. You’re Not Alone—Even the Greats Doubt Themselves 🙃

From Eliza Henry-Jones’ “blind panic” about her books being published by mistake, to Nikki Gemmell’s struggle to reclaim confidence after decades of success, the message is clear: imposter syndrome isn’t proof you’re a fraud. It’s proof you care.

💡 Takeaway for Writers: If you’re doubting yourself, you’re in good company. Let that doubt mean something—it means the work matters to you. Keep going.

2. Your Inner Critic Isn’t Going Anywhere—But It Doesn’t Have to Win 🗣️🚫

Cassie Hamer gives her inner critic a name (Gertrude, the “nasty old lady”), and Megan Dalla-Camina reminds us we can’t silence our critic—but we can learn to manage her. The real power lies in noticing the voice, questioning its truth, and choosing not to believe it.

💡 Takeaway for Writers: Name your critic. Get familiar with her stories. And then lovingly show her to the door. She doesn’t get the final say—you do.

3. Confidence Comes From Action, Not the Other Way Around 🧠💪

Waiting to feel confident before you start writing? You might be waiting forever. Sophie Green says it best: “Get over yourself.” That’s not harsh—it’s freeing. When you create anyway, even through fear, confidence slowly builds.

💡 Takeaway for Writers: Confidence isn’t a prerequisite—it’s a result. Keep showing up, even on the shaky days. That’s where creative courage is born.