Satisfaction

Is it okay for a writer to be satisfied with their work?

I ask this question because I—like so many writers—struggle with the need to always be better. Everything I do is executed with intuition and a careful step, yet there's a great fear that if ever published, other writers will tear me to pieces. Sometimes, I'm so critical that it's almost akin to stepping on my toes while writing, constantly tripping over words, erasing, writing, loving, hating . . . When is a writer allowed to be satisfied?

The biggest thing I have learned, and am still learning, is that confidence is key. It's the backbone to your dreams, and without it, nothing can stand. When I hear myself saying, "I just can't get this section right!" I insert a little confidence and clear away the doubt with, "You're not only going to make it work, you're going to make it brilliant." It's the only way.

There were many situations in my life that were hard to battle through, and I've learned to keep confidence close-by, just in case. When doubt creeps in I grab hold of the old backbone and keep strong. Doubt, yes, give-up? NO.

So again, do you over critique yourself, and how do you get through the writer's doubts? Family, friends, faith? Chocolate?