Self-doubt

Fred Rogers — the beloved television host, Mister Rogers — doubted himself. Even after two decades of success. After some extended time away from the work, he typed this note to himself. As ever, his generosity offers deep and powerful lessons for all.

“Am I kidding myself that I’m able to write a script again? Am I really just whistling Dixie? I wonder. If I don’t get down to it I’ll never really know. Why can’t I trust myself. Really that’s what it’s all about … that and not wanting to go through the agony of creation. AFTER ALL THESE YEARS IT’S JUST AS BAD AS EVER. I wonder if every creative artist goes through the tortures of the damned trying to create? Oh, well, the hour commeth and now IS when I’ve got to do it. GET TO IT, FRED. GET TO IT. … But don’t let anybody ever tell anybody else that it was easy. It wasn’t.”

And a hand-written postscript, added weeks later: “It wasn’t easy but it was good. The five new scripts about school are nearly complete and I can see how helpful they can be. This I must remember!”

* * *

We all struggle with doubt. Creativity is hard. But it’s worthwhile. Recall why we do it. Remind yourself of its value. Coach yourself away from the paralysis that self-doubt sows and get to it — get to the important work that only you can do.