One of the most interesting characters in literature is the unreliable narrator. This character might be delusional, a liar, or is simply prone to exaggeration. Or, they might not have a firm grasp on reality because of their personality or mental state.

The unreliable narrator is so effective as a storytelling device because you don’t know what to believe as a reader. Therefore, it keeps you guessing the whole time.

Some examples of the unreliable narrator in literature include the character Alex in A Clockwork Orange, the unnamed narrator in the short story The Tell-Tale Heart, or Pi Patel in The Life of Pi. You can also see the unreliable narrator archetype in movies such as Fight Club, Gone Girl, or The Usual Suspects.

Each of us has an unreliable narrator in our heads. This is the voice telling you you’re not good enough, you’re not gifted, or nobody will like your writing. It is telling you lies and trying to give you false information.

At the same time, you have a reliable narrator in your head. This one tells you the truth such as you can make a difference, habits are the gateway to success, and you can achieve much more than you ever thought possible.

Your task today is to drown out the unreliable narrator and listen to the other voice that is telling you the truth.