Do you ever get that sinking feeling when you look around and start to compare yourself to others — their art or their business success?
You start to think that no one will every want what you have.
And, then you start to believe the one or two people who have ever commented negatively on your work.
And, then the spiral starts. Really, who are you to do this anyway?
And, you get caught up in that spiral of self-doubt. And, you get stuck or self-sabotage.
Yes, we all end up there at some point. The key is to recognize it and get out. Here are six ideas to help you get out of that spiral and get your work done.
First, stop the comparisons. If you cannot do that, at least look at the comparisons from a place of reality. Are you comparing yourself with someone who has been at the work longer than you? Where are they on the road compared to you? Who do you need to be or what do you need to learn to move forward? You should only be comparing yourself to yourself.
Second, put your situation in perspective. Take a look back, whether that is to the beginning of the year or the beginning of your business. How far have you come? What have you accomplished? When you look at your wins, it gives you a lot of confidence to move forward.
Third, celebrate all your wins, no matter how small. It really does let you see what you are capable of accomplishing. It can help hold that comparison gremlin at bay.
Fourth, connect with the one or two friends who always pick you up, the ones who will see you for who you are — accomplished, talented and cool. You might even keep a file with all those wonderful compliments for times like this. Another place to connect is on Facebook with like-minded creatives. We offer two Facebook groups where you will find people who are creatives just like you: our ICAP Member Page and our Creative Passion to Profit Page. You are sure to find someone who can offer perspective to get you out of your spiral.
Fifth, take a break from what you are doing; in a sense, disconnect from the comparison. You can take a walk. You can put on a funny movie or watch a quick pet video. You can meditate. Meditation is great for getting centered.
Sixth, focus on your end game. You do not want to be in a comparison trap. Go back to what your intention is and focus on that. Then take action in spite of it.
I would love for you to leave a comment below, letting me know what you do when the comparison gremlin starts to appear. Or you may post something on our ICAP Facebook or Google+ pages.
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Morna McEver is the founder and CEO of the International Association of Creative Arts Professionals where creative arts entrepreneurs craft business success. Her weekly e-zine offers tips, techniques and inspiration to help you craft business success from your creative arts passion. You can sign up for a FREE subscription at http://www.creativeartsprofessional.com.
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