It’s a crowded market out there. Whatever genre you write in, chances are its already stuffed with reader favourites, amazing books that delight and linger in the imagination. You probably have favourite authors whose new releases you snaffle and who you re-read frequently hoping the magic rubs off on you and your draft manuscript.

Beware. Setting your mind up to believe you’re competing with these top authors for readers might stifle your brilliance.

The Wall Street Journal has an article on the unconsciously intimidating superstar effect. You become self-conscious and your natural style falters.

Maybe my new mantra should be — only I can write as me?