Stop Comparing Your Journey in Publishing—Celebrate Your Wins
One of the hardest but most important lessons I’ve learned in publishing is to stop comparing my path to others. It’s natural to look around and see what other authors are doing—who has the bigger deal, the flashier agent, the glowing reviews, or the higher sales numbers. In an industry as competitive as publishing, it can feel like there’s always someone who has more.
And let’s be honest: it’s defeating. It’s so easy to fall into the trap of comparison, but all it does is rob you of joy. Comparison is the fastest path to doubt, frustration, and even depression. It makes you question your worth, your talent, and whether you even belong. Worst of all, it diminishes your own wins, making them feel like they’re “not enough.”
But here’s the thing: every writer’s journey is different. Some find success quickly, while others take years of persistence. Some authors thrive with smaller presses, while others wait longer for larger deals. None of these paths are inherently better than the other; they’re just different. What matters most is your personal progress and the goals you’re striving for—not how you stack up to someone else’s milestones.
And remember, every small win is still a win. Publishing a book, getting a thoughtful review, selling even one copy, connecting with a single reader—these are victories worth celebrating. You finished a draft? That’s a win. You wrote 100 words on a day you wanted to quit? Another win. You’re still in the game, still pushing forward, and that matters.
Publishing isn’t a race; it’s a marathon. And the only competitor that matters is the writer you were yesterday. Instead of focusing on what others have, turn your attention inward. Every step forward is proof of your growth, and your unique voice is worth sharing.
It’s also worth remembering that the public side of publishing—the sales announcements, the accolades, the polished Instagram photos—doesn’t always tell the whole story. Behind every glowing deal or bestseller list is someone who has struggled, doubted themselves, or faced rejection just like you.
So, take a moment to pause. Acknowledge where you are right now. Celebrate how far you’ve come, and keep striving for your goals at your own pace. Every small win builds the foundation for bigger ones. The publishing world is big enough for everyone’s success, and your path is just as valuable as anyone else’s.
Keep going—you’re doing amazing.
And let’s be honest: it’s defeating. It’s so easy to fall into the trap of comparison, but all it does is rob you of joy. Comparison is the fastest path to doubt, frustration, and even depression. It makes you question your worth, your talent, and whether you even belong. Worst of all, it diminishes your own wins, making them feel like they’re “not enough.”
But here’s the thing: every writer’s journey is different. Some find success quickly, while others take years of persistence. Some authors thrive with smaller presses, while others wait longer for larger deals. None of these paths are inherently better than the other; they’re just different. What matters most is your personal progress and the goals you’re striving for—not how you stack up to someone else’s milestones.
And remember, every small win is still a win. Publishing a book, getting a thoughtful review, selling even one copy, connecting with a single reader—these are victories worth celebrating. You finished a draft? That’s a win. You wrote 100 words on a day you wanted to quit? Another win. You’re still in the game, still pushing forward, and that matters.
Publishing isn’t a race; it’s a marathon. And the only competitor that matters is the writer you were yesterday. Instead of focusing on what others have, turn your attention inward. Every step forward is proof of your growth, and your unique voice is worth sharing.
It’s also worth remembering that the public side of publishing—the sales announcements, the accolades, the polished Instagram photos—doesn’t always tell the whole story. Behind every glowing deal or bestseller list is someone who has struggled, doubted themselves, or faced rejection just like you.
So, take a moment to pause. Acknowledge where you are right now. Celebrate how far you’ve come, and keep striving for your goals at your own pace. Every small win builds the foundation for bigger ones. The publishing world is big enough for everyone’s success, and your path is just as valuable as anyone else’s.
Keep going—you’re doing amazing.
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