Have you ever opened Instagram, seen a perfectly styled layout, and instantly questioned your own creativity? We all have. Comparison is sneaky. It shows up as admiration, but often leaves behind doubt. For those of us who’ve survived trauma, battled chronic illness, or are healing from burnout, comparison can be especially painful—it chips away at the safe space we’re trying to build.

But creativity isn’t a competition. It’s a path. A practice. A deeply personal journey.

🌿 Why we compare:
We compare to feel connected. To orient ourselves. But in a creative space, that habit can become harmful. Instead of inspiring, it can paralyze us. Especially if we’re already feeling vulnerable or uncertain.

🧠 Comparison tells us lies like:

• “Your work isn’t good enough.”
• “You’re behind.”
• “Why even bother?”
• “Look how much better she’s doing.”

✨ The truth is:

• Your story is unlike anyone else’s.
• You are allowed to create slowly.
• You don’t have to share your work to validate it.
• The messiest page can still hold the most meaning.

Last month, I spent hours on a layout that didn’t come together. I almost gave up—until I reminded myself it’s okay if it’s just for me. That shift in mindset helped me finish it and actually love the result.

💗 Reframing your mindset:

• Instead of “better,” try asking: What’s different?
• Instead of “behind,” try: What do I want to feel?
• Instead of “they’re better than me,” try: I admire their style. I’m finding my own.

Comparison is a thief of joy—and creativity. The next time it sneaks in, pause and ask: What is true for me today? Then create from that space.

➡️ Need a judgment-free space to reconnect with your creativity?

• Download my free Bloom Tracker to focus on consistency, not comparison
• Subscribe to the newsletter for gentle encouragement each week
• Share a photo of your real, in-process work using #CreatingWithoutComparison and tag me @gemspaperscissors—I’ll cheer you on every time 🌸