Silencing the Doubt: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Songwriter

Photo Credit: Iryna Imago (iStock)

If you’ve ever thought, “Who am I to call myself a songwriter?” — you’re not alone.

Imposter syndrome for songwriters is far more common than most of us realise. Whether you’ve written ten songs or a hundred, shared your work online or kept them tucked away, that inner critic often whispers the same thing: you’re not good enough.

In We Write Songs, I see it all the time — talented writers holding themselves back, second-guessing their instincts, or hesitating to share their songs because they’re worried they don’t measure up. I’ve been there too. For years, I let those thoughts stop me from calling myself a songwriter. Even now, they still visit sometimes. But the difference is, I’ve learned to notice them, question them, and keep writing anyway.

Why Imposter Syndrome Hits Songwriters So Hard

Songwriting is personal. It’s not just words and melody — it’s a piece of who you are. That vulnerability makes it powerful, but it also makes you feel exposed. It’s easy to believe everyone else has it figured out, especially when you’re comparing your behind-the-scenes process to someone else’s polished final mix.

Imposter syndrome doesn’t always sound like “I’m not good enough.” Sometimes it’s quieter: “I can’t call myself a songwriter yet.” Or, “I’ll share this song when it’s perfect.” Those thoughts often creep in right at the edge of growth — when you’re about to try something new, share something honest, or stretch yourself creatively. They don’t mean you’re failing; they mean you care deeply about your craft.

Reframing the Narrative

The first step in overcoming imposter syndrome as a songwriter is recognising it for what it is: a fear that’s trying to keep you safe. It’s that protective voice that says, “If I don’t put myself out there, I can’t be rejected.” But staying small only guarantees one thing — you’ll never know what could have happened if you’d tried.

When those thoughts arise, pause and question them. Ask yourself: Would I say this to a friend? Probably not. You’d remind them of the songs they’ve finished, the courage it takes to share something so personal, and the progress they’ve already made. You deserve the same kindness.

Try reframing your self-talk. Instead of, “I’m not as good as other songwriters,” try, “I’m still learning, and every song helps me grow.” Instead of, “I’ll never be good enough,” try, “I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m excited to see where I go next.” It’s amazing how much shifts when you start catching those thoughts in the act.

Progress Over Perfection

You don’t need to earn the right to call yourself a songwriter — you are one, because you write songs. That’s it. There’s no magic number of streams or performances that suddenly makes it official. Every unfinished verse, every lyric scribbled on a napkin, every melody you hum into your phone counts.

Perfectionism and imposter syndrome often work hand in hand, convincing you that you can’t share anything until it’s flawless. But progress comes from the doing, not the waiting. Every time you show up, even when it feels uncomfortable, you’re proving to yourself that the fear doesn’t get to decide.

Building Confidence, One Song at a Time

Confidence doesn’t appear overnight — it builds quietly through small, consistent acts of courage. Start by celebrating the effort rather than the outcome. Did you make time to write this week? Did you experiment with a new chord or finish a chorus? Those moments matter.

Keeping a creative journal can also be a powerful antidote to imposter syndrome. Note down small wins, lessons learned, and lyrics that feel like breakthroughs. When the doubt creeps back in — and it will — you’ll have tangible reminders of just how far you’ve come.

Of course, it also helps to have others who remind you of your progress when you forget. Being part of a community like We Write Songs means you don’t have to wrestle with self-doubt alone. Sometimes hearing “me too” is all it takes to keep going.

If you’re ready to surround yourself with supportive peers who get it, join the We Write Songs community — a creative home for songwriters who want to stay connected to their craft, keep learning, and grow in confidence one song at a time.

Keep Going, Even When It’s Hard

Imposter syndrome for songwriters never fully disappears — but with awareness, community, and compassion, it becomes a quieter companion on your creative journey.

The more you write, the more you realise that the voice of doubt isn’t truth — it’s just noise. The real work is showing up anyway, trusting that every song you finish brings you closer to your true creative voice.

💬 Over to you!

Have you ever struggled with imposter syndrome in your songwriting? How does it show up for you — and what helps you move through it? Tell us in the comments.

---

✉️ Get the We Write Songs Weekly Newsletter

Get fresh songwriting prompts, creative inspiration, and community updates delivered every Monday—straight to your inbox.

It’s your weekly nudge to stay connected to your craft, build momentum, and write with intention—no pressure, just progress.

Sign up now and start your week with purpose!

Sign up!