Comparing Ourselves to Others

Over the past few years, I’ve fantasized about creating my own Tarot Deck. Why Tarot? Well, that’s a story for another time. Short answer: I love it! I’ve read for people all over the world – and dare I say, I’m damn good at it.

One day, I decided to go for it and start the creation process. Picture it (in my Sofia from Golden Girls voice), I’m sitting at my computer, making images, with only the vaguest of ideas of what I’m actually in for. I’m cruising along, sharing my progress on Instagram, throwing caution to the wind.

Everything was going smoothly until I did the unthinkable….I started looking at other indie decks. Not only was I looking at indie decks, I was comparing my art, my expression, my plans, goals and achievements to other people. And HOLY SHIT, did I step in it. I fell down the rabbit hole of undervaluing myself, my skill set and my unique perspective. Paired with the sudden realization of all the decisions that has to be made, and all the factors I needed to take into consideration just to get the deck published. In the span of 20-30 minutes, I became a mad woman.

It was only when my inner Brittany pulled me aside in this grand drama – that I was able to snap out of it.

I had to remember why I chose to create a tarot deck in the first place. Having people connect with the images is nice. Selling thousands of copies would be awesome…definitely. Having a parade in my hometown thrown in my honor of how awesome I am would be cool – ok, ok, that’s probably a little grandiose. But at the essence of the project, I’m creating the deck I want to see, that I wished was on the market when I first started reading tarot with images that I could relate to. Period.

I had to remember “WHY?”

In this weird age of social media we’re living through, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to the lives of others.

If you ever find yourself questioning your value, comparing your life and accomplishments to others, pause. Take a moment, a couple of deep breaths and a sip of water wouldn’t hurt – rum if you’re into it – and remember the big question “Why.”

Remember why you’re doing what you’re doing and keep on keeping on.

“Creativity takes courage.” – Henri Matisse