Why You Shouldn't Compare Your Art To Others

Almost every artist has done it at least once, maybe even more than once honestly. You're scrolling and you see someone else's artwork, and suddenly you feel like your art just doesn't measure up! You think, “Why can't I draw like that?” or “Will I ever be that good? How?”.

Let me tell you, that feeling is very real. But now, comparing your art to others isn't helpful, and honestly isn't fair to you. Here, let me tell you why it happens, what  it really means, and how to look at things in a different light.

Every Artist Grows at a Different Pace

The truth is, no two artists learn the same way. You could be comparing yourself to an artist that has been drawing for 10 years, while you've only been drawing for two; or you could be comparing your art to ones who has been drawing every single day while you can only draw on the weekends. Everyone has different times, and like that, everyone has different styles. 

And that's okay! Every artist grows at a different pace! They develop different styles and ways to do what they do, and its okay if your art doesn't match the art of the person on your screen. As long as it makes you happy and fulfilled. 

Social media Doesn't Show the Full Story

Let's be honest, a lot of what you see online is the best piece they have. Most artists who post online typically don't post their “bad” work online. You don't see their mess ups, redo's, mistakes, and possible frustrations it took to make that art.

You also don't see their moments of struggle, the times where they were unsure in their art. The moments every artist has, they don't always show. Leaving you feeling like you're wrong for doubting. But please know it's normal to have doubt, and everything you see from online artists may not always be true. 

Comparison can Hurt Your Confidence

If you constantly compare yourself to others, you can lose that spark you had for art. Then you might quit the thing you used to love because you feel like what you do isn't enough. Knowing practice will increase your skills, even if that practice is drawing hair or nature or anything you see day to day.  Know other artists aren't your compassion–they're part of your community.  

Be Inspired, Not Defeated

When you look at others' art, take what they do as inspiration.. Not as you think they are better than you. Maybe you like the way they draw eyes, or the way they do their hands. Use what you learn from them! Every artist can be your mentor, you just have to have the right mindset for it. You never know, maybe someday another artist will look up to the style you create!

Final Thoughts

It's totally normal to compare yourself to others, but knowing someone else’s art doesn't make yours less important. So use that, and keep creating, doing what you love! Because no matter what, it's your art, and no one should dictate what you love to do.