Imposter Syndrome. That sneaky, joy-stealing bastard.

If you’re a screenwriter—whether you’re just starting out or deep in the trenches—you’ve likely heard that voice whispering, “Who do you think you are?” or “This script will never be as good as (insert Oscar-winning screenplay here).”

And that voice? It’s lying to you.

So let’s expose Imposter Syndrome for what it really is—a cycle of self-doubt, perfectionism, and creative paralysis that keeps you from writing the story only you can tell. Because the truth is, no one else sees the world like you do.

But before we get to the solution, let’s break down how writers get trapped in this cycle in the first place.