Compare Quote by Pankaj Mishra
“I wrote for many years without showing my writing to anyone, because I was constantly comparing it to what I was reading. You have to compare yourself to the best and feel totally inadequate.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015
Comparing one's work to others can stifle creativity and cause self-doubt, hindering personal growth.
In simple terms: Comparison kills creativity.
Write for yourself.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing practice
- creative workshops
- personal journaling
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance learning from others with self‑confidence?
- What steps help us trust our own voice?
Risk of isolation and lack of feedback.