One of the most difficult things about being in this industry is that everyone is really freakin good…
You’re basically dealing with the cream of the crop and that makes it hard to keep your eyes in your lane. In my early days, I always found it difficult not to compare my work to those whose content I was engaging with. And at times, even found myself unintentionally copying. I strongly feel that this is a struggle most people combat in the early stages of any creative endeavor. Stay committed enough and you’ll eventually develop your own style.
I wanted to bring this topic to light because I know the noise today makes it even harder to concentrate on yourself. So, I’m sharing a few things I did that might work for you - here’s how to stop comparing yourself to other bloggers:
Get off the Internet
Pay attention to your emotions. When the detrimental thief of happiness lurks its way in, you can usually tell because you’re mind is starting to wander off and question why you’re not good enough - and why someone else gets all these amazing experiences while you’re stuck with whatever banality you’re in. That’s cue to get off line and live in the present. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing as long as you get off. My favorite things to do are read books or write!
Reflect on your journey
When I really feel like crap, I find that physically seeing how far I’ve come is always an eye-opener because it’s proof that everyone has to find their way - and that I have made personal progress. I used to compare myself a ton in the realm of photography, but a quick glance at my 2013-2017 archives is a real pick-me-up and motivation to keep going. It also helps during this process to set goals about where you want to be… A silly thing I’ve started doing is drawing all the things I want to manifest in my life on my iPad Pro - yes, I know, silly but it works!
Get off Instagram and Get on Pinterest
I realize now that I get different vibes from different platforms. If I’m starting to compare myself to someone else, it’s usually because I’m looking at Instagram. So if I need real inspiration without the guilt, I get on Pinterest. For whatever reason, Pinterest feels more inspirational to look at. I’m a serial pinner… Feel free to tag along here!
At the end of the day, remember that comparison is the end to all the good things you have going on in your life. Be cognizant of your mind and your heart and guard them so that you’re not selling your happy reality for someone else’s make-believe. These days, I’d much prefer to be happy for someone’s success - and use it as a catalyst to get myself there.
How do you deal with comparison?
xo,
Susan
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