Everybody else is better than me!
- annabellenarey
- Jul 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 11
Let’s face it—if you’ve ever picked up a paintbrush or a pencil, chances are you’ve also picked up an uninvited guest: that inner voice that won't stop whispering: “Other people are better than me.”
First things first: you're not alone. That voice has visited pretty much every artist. Even the ones with gallery shows, huge Instagram followings, or paint-splattered overalls that just look effortlessly cool. We have all at some point admired someone's work and despondently made a comparison with our own
But here's the thing, better can be boring. Art and creativity isn’t a race —it’s a long, meandering journey. It’s about growth, not winning.
What should we do when the comparison monster arrives?
Remember: Every artist started as a beginner.
You’re not behind—you’re just on a different page. The artists you admire probably have sketchbooks full of dodgy proportions, wobbly lines, and “why did I draw this?” moments, but they kept going, and so can you.
Turn comparison into curiosity.
Instead of “They’re better.” try “What can I learn?” Whether it’s colour choices, composition, or courage to share, you can turn defeat into inspiration—and that’s far more productive.
3. Make bad art on purpose.
This is my favourite one, just let yourself off the hook. Do things that invite a sense of play, paint with your non-dominant hand, doodle with your eyes closed. Give yourself permission to make an absolute mess. You’ll be amazed at how freeing it is when you're not trying to impress anyone—especially yourself.
Art isn’t linear. One day you’ll make something incredible. The next, it’ll feel like you’ve never held a pencil in your life. It doesn’t mean you’re getting worse—it is just a natural part of learning. Behind the scenes your brain is busy filing experiences and forming new ideas.
Your voice matters.
You are unique, No one else can make your art, with your perspective, in your way, with your knowledge and experience. There is ample space in the world for countless different styles—and yours is one of them. Learn to be proud of your uniqueness.
In short: Other people might appear on the surface to be more skilled or knowledgeable with techniques, be more practiced, or more commercially popular—but they’re not YOU. And your artistic journey is as valid, weird, and wonderful as anyone else's.
Download a free quiz and "Artist's Mantra" poster here:
Comments