I feel that I will be unable to finish my novel, or that I am not a capable enough writer, or not an outstanding enough writer to succeed as an author. I worry that the piece, which I have devoted so much time to, is not good enough and that I will disappoint myself.

What feelings arise? 

Frustrated that I am worthless, unintelligent, ill, paralyzed.

How does it affect you?

It is consistently on my mind and makes me feel regretful and guilty each time I recall it. It makes me feel like nothing is important.

What is your part?

To finish writing, to be a good enough writer, to succeed and prosper.

What are you learning? 

I am driven.

I fear failure more than anything else.

I push myself off of ledges for myself.

I am my own greatest critic.

What can you shift in your perspective?

Allow myself to understand that I am not a failure for not reaching my personal goals. Instead of just thinking how badly I want it, I’ll just do it.

How do you choose to work with your difficulty? 

I choose to stop thinking and start doing.

What is your difficulty teaching you?

My hope is that this applies to far more than just this particular issue—instead of thinking about this and developing worries, I choose to just be productive.

female, 17 years