Comparisons are odious.
This quote has been attributed to many since the words are so true. Competition can lead to dangerous thinking that must be eliminated in 2026 and beyond.
- I’m not as good as that author who’s been writing for decades. Are you sure? That author might have many published books, yet earns barely enough money to meet monthly bills.
- How can I compete with dead people? Rather than worrying about classic authors, consider that new writers can add to the existing body of work with great quality appreciated by today’s readers. And future readers, too. New writers can capture our contemporary time and place better than anyone else can in the future. Don’t believe me? Read classic novels written by authors of that period to see how little people, their concerns, and behaviors have changed in the past couple of centuries.
- I just read a bestselling author who writes convoluted plots, and his books are filled with typos, so why does he have all the fans while I’m ignored? Lots of millionaire authors indulge in martinis on private jets without seeing a dime from me. I wish them well, because as an agent, I focus on writers with a distinct fan base; and as a reader, I have particular tastes. As do most readers. Forget the unreachable reader. Authors concentrating on those who enjoy their writing are the most likely to meet with success.
- Why did that author win an award and not me? Think about it: Has there been a time when Oscar nomination announcements haven’t been followed almost immediately by “Oscar Snubs” musings? Consider that judges with subjective opinions giving awards to creatives aren’t bound by statistics. Most authors will never know why they didn’t receive an award they might have deserved. Then again, that same author may one day win an award that leaves peers wondering. A prize is nice, but trophies don’t change God’s opinion of you. Don’t let any award or lack thereof change your opinion of yourself.
Your journey is unique to yourself. Never assess your achievements in contrast to anyone else’s. Continue to work and carry on your mission. You are loved.
