How Do I Stop Comparing Myself to Other Successful Creatives?
So, you’ve set off on your own creative or entrepreneurial journey. You’re pumped…until you see someone who looks like a creative superhero, posting stunning portfolio pieces daily while you’re over here still picking a brand color palette. Cue the “not good enough” spiral, right?
Comparison is an easy trap to fall into, especially in creative fields where success can feel subjective and social media constantly showcases others’ wins. But comparison often drains your energy, dampens your creativity, and distracts you from your unique path.
Here’s the truth: No one’s life is as perfect as it appears in their highlight reels. Let’s rewire how you see these success stories and focus on creating your own.
1. Recognize the Illusion: Social Media’s Highlight Reel
Social platforms are like curated art galleries—people display their best pieces, not their 3 AM brainstorm scribbles or the 57 flopped attempts that came before the final masterpiece.
Action Step: Next time you catch yourself feeling “behind,” remind yourself that you’re seeing someone’s greatest hits, not their blooper reel.
Pro Tip: Mute or unfollow any account that makes you feel consistently inadequate—at least until you’re in a better headspace.
2. Embrace Your Learning Curve (It’s Not a Bad Thing)
No one is born playing the piano like Mozart or painting like Frida Kahlo. Every “overnight success” story has a long backstory of late nights, frustrations, and pivot moments you’ll never see.
Reality Check: If you’re still figuring it out, that’s normal—and it’s part of the journey.
Celebrate Milestones: Even small wins (like finishing that first draft or mastering one new design tool) deserve a mini dance party.
3. Pinpoint What You Really Want
Sometimes we compare ourselves to someone who’s successful in a field we don’t even like. (Remember that time you felt jealous of a friend’s candle-making business, even though you hate the smell of lavender wax?)
Clarify Your Own Path: Ask yourself: “What kind of success do I want?” Maybe it’s creative freedom, more time with family, or traveling while working.
Customize Your Goals: Tailor them to your actual passions, not just the flashy thing everyone on social media is talking about.
4. Stop Seeking Validation from Likes, Follows, and Clout
We all love those little red notification icons—but they’re not a reflection of your real worth.
Internal Metric Check: What if no one liked or shared your work—would you still create it? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.
Experiment for Fun: If you’re always worried about how your art or writing will be received, try doing a mini-project you never plan to share. It’s liberating and reminds you why you started creating in the first place.
5. Compare to Yourself…But Only in Moderation
Yes, “be better than you were yesterday” is a cliché. But it actually works—when used wisely.
Look Back at Past You: How have your skills improved over the last 6 months or year? You may be blowing your old self out of the water without realizing it.
Track Personal Growth: Keep a simple list or digital folder of your biggest wins, experiments, and breakthroughs. It’s a tangible way to see how far you’ve come.
6. Use Others’ Success as Inspiration, Not a Measuring Stick
Seeing someone crush it can be a source of motivation—if you approach it with the right mindset.
Ask “How?” Instead of “Why Not Me?”: If you’re truly inspired by someone’s journey, study it. What strategies did they use? What lessons can you learn?
Collaborate, Don’t Compete: Sometimes the best way to squash envy is to reach out and connect. You never know—maybe you can help each other, or at least share war stories.
7. Practice Gratitude (Yes, Even When Things Are Messy)
It might feel cheesy, but focusing on what’s working can shift your perspective in a powerful way.
Gratitude Journaling: Jot down 3 things you’re thankful for every day—creative breakthroughs, supportive friends, that random new client inquiry.
Celebrate Tiny Victories: Did you finish a project, even if it’s not perfect? That’s a win. Recognize it.
8. Manage Your Mental Space Like a Pro
If you’re in a “compare and despair” loop, it might be time for some environment tweaks.
Digital Detox: Try a weekend social-media-free. You’ll be surprised how much mental clarity you gain.
Mindfulness Matters: Meditation, a quick walk, or even a 5-minute breathing exercise can reset your mood when you’re feeling envious or inadequate.
Bonus: The Power of Sharing Your Struggles
Ever notice how the most endearing online creators are the ones who admit they don’t have it all figured out? Your transparency can help you connect with an audience that loves authenticity. Not to mention, it relieves some of the pressure to appear perfect.
Share Your Process: Show behind-the-scenes sketches, half-written articles, or funny fails. People appreciate realness!
Ask for Help: If you see a creative you admire, reach out with a genuine question. You might be surprised how supportive and down-to-earth they are.
Key Takeaway: Your Journey Is Yours Alone
Other people’s successes don’t cancel out yours. You have a unique blend of experiences, perspective, and talents that no one else can replicate. So keep forging your own path—at your own pace—and let the comparisons fade into the background.
Remember: The grass always looks greener on someone else’s meticulously filtered feed. Water your own yard, nurture your own creativity, and watch how vibrant your world becomes.
Your Turn:
Try a quick exercise—pick one creative hero you admire. Write down three things about their journey that inspire you. Then write down one step you can take to incorporate those insights into your life. It’s a constructive way to transform envy into action!
Here’s to focusing on your own lane, building your craft, and staying joyfully creative—no comparisons needed.
