Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jen Craven. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jen, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
As a writer, it’s easy to compare yourself to others–other authors, other books, their success. It can really bring you down, much like a bad bout of the flu. That’s why I refer to this as “comparisonitis.” And it’s something I’m constantly reminding myself to avoid. Imposter syndrome runs rampant amongst creatives. There have been plenty of times I’ve doubted my ability, thought my work wasn’t good enough, or even became embarrassed with too much praise. Me? If only these readers knew…
But the more I write, the more confident I become. I’m learning to see the value in my work. When I get stuck or start to think a project is garbage, I reframe the thinking to remind myself that creating is a process that takes time. No first draft is ever a final draft. Likewise, I’ve opened myself up to accolades, such as book reviews and messages from readers, without giving each piece of praise a caveat.
In the end, you have to put faith in yourself and push most everything else to the side. You are worthy, your work is worthy, and imposter syndrome is just a little monster than likes to follow capable people around.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am the author of domestic suspense novels centered on ethical dilemmas where one decision changes everything. My books are ideal for readers who enjoy fast-paced plots with a twist or two thrown in. The themes are perfect conversation starters for book clubs, and I love meeting with groups in person or over Zoom! You can learn more about me and my books at my website, www.jencraven.com, or by following me on instagram @jencravenauthor where I share my favorite reads, give insight into my writing process, host giveaways and so much more. Keep an eye out for my next release, scheduled to launch September 25, 2024!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I do not have formal writing training–no writing degree, MFA, or special writing programs. My writing ability grew over time, likely starting way back with middle school English assignments. I began writing seriously about ten years ago by publishing personal essays in places like Huffington Post, Washington Post, Scary Mommy, and many other national outlets. It wasn’t until I started wondering whether I had the chops to write an actual BOOK, that my love of writing turned to fiction. All this said, I think it’s important for writers to know that they don’t have to follow another person’s path. Many successful authors have degrees behind them, but many do not.
Secondly, I think that I learned early on to trust my gut when it came to my writing. Don’t be afraid to step outside the box of what everyone else is doing. In terms of publishing, there are many paths to get your work out there. Choose the one that feels right for YOU. Early on, I made a major pivot from pursuing traditional publishing to deciding to self-publish my first three novels. It was 100% the right choice for me at that time, and I’m certain it gave me a sense of confidence and control over my work.
Finally, I feel strongly that all writers should also be avid readers. However, I’m always pushing myself to read outside of my comfort zone. If you have a favorite, go-to genre, try something new for your next read. This is one of the best ways I learn about my craft and find inspiration. Staying on the pulse of the literary world is important to know what’s going on, what’s being published, what readers are saying, etc.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Writing can be a very solitary experience. We work alone, often in our own heads. On top of that, living in a small, rural town means that I don’t have direct access to a network of authors, unlike writers who live in big cities and have face-to-face interactions with like-minded people. With that, my online writing community has become essential to my author journey. I’ve formed incredible relationships with other authors, many of whom I’ve never met in person! Along with seven other novelists, I’m part of an author collective called The Eleventh Chapter (find us on instagram!). Not only do we support each other, but we pull our resources for things like cross-promotion and marketing efforts. We are often the first to read each other’s manuscripts, we offer feedback, and are the first to celebrate each other’s wins. This group, and the friendships I’ve formed with the women in it, is probably the best thing that has come out of my writing life. All of this to say: Writers, find your author community!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jencraven.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jencravenauthor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferCravenAuthor
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