It’s ok to doubt before publishing anything. Heck, it’s ok to doubt anything.
But doubting shouldn’t mean not doing. If you’re thinking about it, if you’re trying, then you’re ready.
Trust your content.
If the internet has taught us anything, is that there’s always people that think like you do.
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I agree – as writers and bloggers, we second guess ourselves constantly. But in the end, it’s about trusting your instincts – odds are, if you have something ready to publish, you should publish it. Don’t stifle your creativity and self expression by second guessing and doubting yourself. Well said Carlos.
That’s exactly right Matt. You got it. In fact, you’ve been proving us all that you got it for a long time now.
You’re totally right. In fact, I think we should seriously consider what we post before we post it. The last thing we want is to regret clicking publish. But, at the same time, the most difficult posts to write are often the most genuine, and people tend to appreciate those posts the most. Great insight as usual!
Exactly. I don’t think “authentic” bloggers like Penelope or Holly hoffman don’t doubt before publishing. But they understand that being polemic is part of the game. That doubting is a good sign.
This post/advice is coming at the perfect time for me. I feel like I’m reaching the plateau of my online existence, so to speak. I love reading others’ words and providing whatever insight and value I can, but with each comment I question that value, not trusting it or myself.
Sometimes I wonder if I’m not missing the point of a post because I tend to get out of it something entirely different than either the original intention or the other comments. Sometimes I’m left with nothing to write on my own blog because social media can be so two-dimensional and I’m wondering if I’m expressing myself as articulately as I’d like, saying what I really mean.
And sometimes I say everything I’m feeling in a comment and don’t know how to transfer that into a post of its own.
Like this.
Self-doubt really can be the greatest foe.
Great post, Carlos. Thanks for verbalizing what’s been in the back of my mind for some time now!
This comment made my day. And you should re-read it every time you doubt your content again susan, because you’re one hell of a writer. your content is outstanding, and everyone can tell. I’m glad this post has been useful to you in some way. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts about it.
Carlos-
I have been thinking about this balance lately. How much of myself to put out there and finding the confidence to truly trust my own content. We are living in a time where content is key and represents who we are. It takes that extra push and effort, coupled with the self confidence and belief in yourself and your ideas that makes the blogger.
Thanks for this, and always having such succinct, thoughtful insights.
-Carla
Thanks for your support Carla. Coming from you, it feels really good. I’m glad you could find it useful! Also, I love the idea of content representing us. I’ll think about it a little more, it’s an interesting idea.
Great post! Just wanted to let you know you have a new subscriber- me!