The Author Comparison Trap
Imposter syndrome. Now that is a very strong two words in the book community, and that is because we as authors sometimes like to compare ourselves or compare our social pages on different platforms to other authors that are maybe more accomplished and published. The way they write their story, the way they write their book, and the way they lay out their own world for readers is completely different. They may have some awesome book covers, or they may have an fantastic storyline and plot ready for readers to dive into. They might be in different genres, or even if you're writing in the exact same genre, you still find yourself comparing. Especially when you’re starting out, you can feel like your story isn't worth it. That fear creeps up—worrying about what people will think, fearing your story isn’t as great as someone else’s.
But what makes you say that? What makes you think that? Maybe those same authors went through the exact same thing at the beginning—wondering if anyone was ever going to read their book, if anyone would take the time to write an awesome review, or fearing the sting of negative feedback. Sometimes we doubt ourselves so badly that we second-guess everything we write, wondering if it's even worth the time, energy, and money we put in. But if we don’t push ourselves to become something great, if we don’t keep going and ignore those voices in our heads telling us we aren't worthy of the title author, what does it all mean? What does it truly mean? When we let that doubt take over, we stress ourselves to the maximum. We lose sleep, we overthink, and we end up stuck in a rut.
I can say this because I’ve personally had to deal with it. I’ve caught myself comparing my journey to other authors. My writing and my genre are completely different from what others are publishing. My book isn’t out yet, but I’m working hard on it. I won't lie—I feel imposter syndrome creeping in sometimes, self-doubting myself as an upcoming author because I feel like I’m not as great as everyone else.
But algorithms do not measure storytelling. We are each storytellers in our own unique words. Always remember that you are not just an author—you are human. You go through real-life experiences, pain, love, and growth. Storytelling isn't just pure fantasy; a piece of your real world, your truth, and your heart goes directly into every story you tell.
I have to remind myself that every author is different, just like every reader is different. What makes my book incredible to one reader might simply not be another person’s taste, and that is okay. We take the good and the bad in this field. All we can do is give our absolute best, bringing the world inside our heads out into reality so readers can experience it and decide for themselves. Personally, I have my favorite authors whose books I will buy on e-book or pre-order the moment they drop, whether in e-book form, paperback, or hardcover.
At the end of the day, don’t ever doubt yourself and don’t compare yourself to other authors. They might have more followers, more likes, or more activity on their feeds, but they have their own world, and you have yours. Keep your head held high. Keep walking forward, and you will achieve the success you’re working for. Whether you reach thousands of readers or a small, dedicated circle, you have people who believe in your work. And who knows? Those characters you breathed life into might be the exact comfort, guidance, or escape someone needed in the real world—all because you chose to put your words onto that blank page.
