Unmasking the Writing Myth: Why Comparison is the Thief of Creativity
Embrace your unique journey and uncover deeper insights through consistent practice
Hi Flyers and Welcome into Flight School:
We are deep into our ten week “Get it Done” challenge. Congratulations to all of you for coming this far. Now it’s time to re-fuel for a strong finish by talking about the trap of comparing yourself to others.
I know, I know, it’s tempting to measure your progress against others or even against your own expectations. You might read about someone's 3,500-word day and feel a twinge of inadequacy. Like a cat waiting at the mouse hole, watch out! Comparison is a trap.
Here's why: Every writer's journey is unique. Your goal isn't to match someone else's word count or draft number. It's to push your own boundaries and tell the story only you can tell.
The Long Game
Writing isn't just about this challenge or this project. It's a long game, a series of obstacles and opportunities that shape us as writers and as people. Each writing session, each bout of writer's block, each moment of inspiration - they're all part of the process.
Remember: You're running a race against one person only - yourself.
Depth Through Practice
Our daily writing practice isn't just about productivity. It's about diving deeper into our craft. Think of it like having a long conversation instead of a quick chat. With more time comes more depth, which then channels itself into our stories.
As you write consistently, you're not just telling a story. You're honing your craft and becoming a master of your unique voice. With that mastery comes a depth of insight that will surprise you.
Your Challenge in Week Eight
Instead of focusing on output, try this:
At the end of each writing session, note one thing you discovered - about your characters, your story, or your writing process.
Reflect on how your understanding of your story or your craft has deepened since the start of this challenge.
Remember, the only truly wasted writing day is one where you don't write at all.
Community Support
You're part of a community of writers here. We're not competing; we're growing together. Share your struggles and triumphs. Learn from others' experiences, but don't try to replicate their journeys.
Keep pushing, keep exploring, and above all, keep writing. Your unique story is waiting to be told, and your growth as a writer is the real measure of success.
Stay focused, stay true to your voice, and let's wrap week seven strong, and come Monday, hit week eight with all we’ve got.
Let’s go,
🐦⬛ J.
Thank you Jennifer. This is so important and I am glad that you brought this up. It is a good reminder. One of my biggest challenges is controlling my self defeating thoughts and one of them is to compare my progress with others. The reminder for me here is that I can only go with my own accomplishments/goals and what they mean to me, however small or humble or big they may be, they are mine and I own them.
Depth and community -- this is where the gold is for me :) Thank you.