What if people don't like me?

Episode Description:

In this episode of "What If? For Authors," Claire Taylor tackles the anxiety-inducing topic of not being liked. Drawing from her experience as an Enneagram coach and her own author journey, Claire explores the fear of rejection and how it affects different Enneagram types. Whether you're just starting out or are an established author, this episode provides a compassionate and realistic approach to managing your expectations and emotions regarding others' opinions.

Key Takeaways:

• Fear of Rejection: Understand that the fear of not being liked can be amplified once you start publishing, but this amplification can also be an opportunity for growth.
• Perfectionism and Approval: Learn how perfectionism, especially from an Enneagram One perspective, can impact your need for approval and how to address it.
• Different Enneagram Types: Explore how various Enneagram types experience the fear of not being liked and how it impacts their writing.
• Responsibility for Feelings: Recognize that how others feel about you is their responsibility, not yours, and take ownership of your feelings about others.
• Focusing on Supporters: Redirect your attention from critics to supporters to build a stronger connection with those who already like you.
• Parental Expectations: Address the influence of parental approval on your creative decisions and the importance of disappointing them to stay true to yourself.
• Internal Liberation: Embrace the clarity and freedom that comes from accepting that disappointing others might be part of your path toward fulfilling your purpose.

Why Listen? If you find yourself struggling with the fear of not being liked or are overwhelmed by criticism, this episode offers a thoughtful and empathetic perspective. This episode is a must-listen for any author seeking to balance the desire for approval with staying true to their creative vision.

Join the Conversation: Have a question or fear you'd like me to explore? Reach out to me at contact@ffs.media.

Access the transcript for this episode here.

Happy Writing!