photo by Lavender & Twine // flowers by Stella Bloom Designs
One of the most popular quotes I see these days is "Comparison is the thief of joy." I agree with that sentiment whole-heartedly, but that doesn't mean I don't fall into the comparison trap every single day. It's inevitable. There's always someone who is better than I am in some way; they're prettier than I am, they have better style, they are farther along in their careers than me.
I'm constantly on Pinterest, seeing the best work from the best people, and I always get a little sad that I didn't create it. It's a terrible, terrible way to live! But I think I realized a few things recently:
1 // I just can't be the best at everything.
2 // Instead of comparing my work (or lack thereof), I need to start admiring and appreciating their work.
3 // Seeing something beautiful should be an opportunity to learn. It should be my chance to understand a little bit more about the creative process, and it should be a lesson on how I can become a more creative person.
There are so many people that are amazing graphic designers or interior designers or cooks or crafters, and I want to be amazing at it all! But obviously, that's impossible, and having that mindset really just zaps my own creative spirit. I need to take a step back, consider what I do have to offer the world, and then just appreciate the contribution of others as well.
I want to know, how do you deal with comparison? Do you have any tips for those of us in this creative industry?
5 comments:
This resonates with me so much, Joelle. I really wish that I took point three more to heart, but it's so hard! I think I just need to let things go more sometimes.
It's hard not to get jealous when you see the creative work of someone else, and it really floors you. This happens to me all of the time. I think you just need to step back and realize that you, too, are doing amazing work... and it helps a little to think that someone out there is jealous of the work you're doing, too :P
one of the hardest lessons i've had to learn is that there is absolutely no way i can be awesome at everything. it took a long time to get past the desire to be, but once i let it go, it allowed me to enjoy SO much more!
It's hard not to compare yourself to something/someone else. I think you just have to find balance between comparing yourself to being content with yourself.
xx Denysia Yu
http://thatlaitgirl.com
So true! J and I always talk about how amazing everyone else (like YOU!) is...when we should be congratulating ourselves for making it this far. Great advice!
www.the-glitter-life.com
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