comparison trap

I'm used to being the best at things.  Growing up I was always the best at Mario Kart.   There were times when I wasn't allowed to play anymore because my sisters were mad that I would always win.  In elementary school I was one of the only girls playing soccer with all the boys at recess.  From there I was the best hurdler in middle school and on to high school.  In photography class in high school, I was at the top of my class. But then came the real world.

I've always had this nosy person inside of me so looking at all the wedding photography blogs was like heaven to me.  I could get lost stalking other photographers work for hours.  Its that time of year where all the photographers are posting their "2014 Year in Review."  For me its a time where I tend to fall into the comparison trap.  "Why can't I be as good as that person" or "Why am I not getting to travel to those locations."  I read an article the other day where God really smacked me in my face.  It went like this,

"Too often we look around at the talents and abilities of others and wish to be more like someone else. But we have been perfectly designed for the purposes God has for us, and He makes no mistakes.  If we spend our time wishing for talents that do not suit God's plan, or if we refuse to use the spiritual gifts He's given us, we waste his efforts and our opportunity to serve him.  The Master is pleased with the way He has designed our life and the abilities He's poured into us.  To honor the Potter as a vessel should, we must submit to being molded and used as He desires."

My goal this year is to no longer compare myself to other amazingly talented artist.  I was designed to capture things no one else but me is able to do.  If you tend to fall in the comparison trap, remember this verse,

make careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Dont be impressed with yourself. dont compare yourself with others... Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with YOUR OWN LIFE.

galatians 6:4-5