Don't Compare Yourself to Others

I asked my voice students to make singing goals this year.  One of the questions I asked them was, “What will you do less of in 2021?”  I was very surprised when I received this same answer from so many students – “I will stop comparing my voice to others.”

We have all compared ourselves to others at one time or another.  Many of us struggle with some level of insecurity.  It can be hard to be completely comfortable with your own unique voice.  I still struggle with this.      

Every voice is different.  It would be so boring if we were all the same.  It’s OK to notice our differences, but it can become destructive when we evaluate ourselves based on someone else. Comparing yourself to others will result in unrealistic expectations. 

There will ALWAYS be someone better than you.  Instead of comparing your voice to another amazing singer, take notes about what you like about their voice. Tone? Control? Dynamics? Expression?  Let it inspire you to love your instrument and motivate your own singing progress.

Now, write down what you love about YOUR voice.  What are your strengths?  How can you continue to strengthen that part of your voice? Decide what success in singing means to you.  You are on your own personal vocal journey!  Focus on your own development and great things will start to happen.  Remember your voice is not like anyone else and you have something special to offer! 

“Comparison is the thief of joy” – Theodore Roosevelt

AUTHOR: KERRI HARDWICK