Comparisons

One of the things we hear constantly in the artistic life is don’t compare yourself to others. What a simple phrase – something we can toss off at the drop of a hat, glibly recite to our colleagues when their confidence is wavering, say to ourselves when we don’t really like what we’ve produced.

Yes. What a simple phrase. And, let’s face it, one that is almost completely useless. I mean, who can carve out a creative career without comparison? We all do it, all the time, for all the elements of our practice.

Maybe comparison doesn’t always get us down – some sort of immunity or resistance cuts in. Maybe seeing an artwork that speaks to you, or reading a poem that captures life, or listening to music that shifts the world, doesn’t necessarily crush our ambitions – and that’s great – but let’s not pretend we don’t look at our own work, at least for a little while, in the light of something we may perceive as different.

Hats off to those who don’t – if you exist. More strength to you. And best wishes to those who, even occasionally, compare themselves to others and find they are even more pleased with their work.

Whether there’s a positive outcome or a fleeting negative one, comparison happens. I imagine it happens in every type of work. Perhaps it even has the power to spur us to new heights. So we shouldn’t be scared. It’s just a thing.

Until next time,

Kirsten