Let’s talk about self-esteem for bloggers. As content creators who share our lives online in pretty photos and exquisitely produced tutorials, there are small parts of ourselves where we may feel like we don’t measure up. Maybe you didn’t get a much-awaited invitation to an event. Or the pitch you submitted to your favorite brand received a big, fat “No” in the email reply. Did a security issue on your blog affect your traffic this week? It only takes a few down moments of scrolling through Instagram for the self-doubt and low self-esteem to take ahold. You start comparing your feed to other bloggers. But although it’s a lonely feeling, it’s something everyone feels. Stick around while we address how bloggers can fight imposter syndrome and be their authentic selves online.
Even award-winning poet, Maya Angelou, suffered from imposter syndrome. Before her death in 2014, the African American writer had best-selling books, was the first female inaugural poet in U.S. history, and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Ms. Angelou still found times in her life when she felt like she didn’t think she measured up.
Here is Ms. Angelou’s famous quote about imposter syndrome:
“I have written 11 books but each time I think ‘Uh-oh, they’re going to find out now. I’ve run a game on everybody, and they’re going to find me out.’”
—Maya Angelou
As history shows, Ms. Angela’s opinions of herself didn’t match how the world viewed her or her writing.
Ways to Fight Imposter Syndrome
Tune out the noise.
Although it’s your job as an influencer to keep track of trending topics and engage with your followers online, it’s OK to step back in the interest of self-care.
Don’t feel pressured to reply to every comment on your blog.
Take a break from social media threads or discussions that distract you or bring you down.
Seek out encouraging, inspirational content.
Hire a virtual assistant to handle some of your blogging chores and tasks for a few days, a weekend or a week.
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Pitch a travel review stay that’s focused on self-care.
Lean in to your support system.
You have an audience who values you. Listen to them.
Create a list of your most positive comments and replies from your followers.
Tell your blogging tribe you’re feeling down. Ask them for support. Chances are you aren’t the only one feeling this way.
Share a blog post about the dangers of imposter syndrome for your target audience. Monitor how your audience reacts the post. You may be surprised to see how many people identify with this feeling.
RELATED TOPIC: How to Be a Supportive Member of a Blogging Tribe
Avoid the comparison trap.
This is probably one of the most difficult steps for bloggers. We scroll through our social feeds throughout the day where we can see what other bloggers are doing, where they’re traveling and engage in their content.
It’s so easy to fall into the trap of comparing your photography, your product reviews and your opportunities to other bloggers.
Stay true to yourself and your niche. It may be attractive to borrow or copy another blogger’s new direction or focus, but don’t fall into this trap.
Build your confidence.
Stop making excuses for the plans you’ve been making. It’s time to work on a project that’s designed to build your confidence.
Write the cookbook you’ve been daydreaming about.
Launch the subscription service you’ve been stalling on.
Create the e-course that answers the most common question or dilemma for your audience.
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Recognize imposter syndrome when you feel it.
You’re not alone when you feel low self-esteem.
Even experienced, six-figure bloggers have moments of self-doubt.
Whether you have 2,000 or 20,000 Instagram followers, feelings of imposter syndrome are normal for influencers.
To offer you more support, here are ”7 Quotes on Imposter Syndrome That Will Help You Gain Confidence.”
We have a supportive Facebook group for The Network Niche influencers where you can ask for questions and share your expertise.
Would you like to learn more about growing your influencer as a content creator? Would you like to be connected to brands for paid sponsorships and invited to cover events in your region?
Join The Network Niche influencer agency, by adding your blog’s name, contact information and your blog’s stats so we can find the perfect fit for future brand collaborations.
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