I met my friend, Joe Cavazos, about four years ago. We met up for coffee at a Starbucks in Corpus Christi, Texas. And I realized I really liked this guy. Massively talented and a cool guy too.
At that time, I still fancied myself a bit of a graphic designer. Working in an area where good graphic design wasn’t exactly prevalent, I felt like a big fish. I felt like I knew my stuff.
Unfortunately, my friend Joe showed me pretty quickly that I didn’t. He never discouraged me intentionally, but each time I saw his portfolio I felt inadequate as a designer. And in truth, I was. Through my friend Joe, I realized that wasn’t really my strength.
I’m so glad I discovered this truth, because it helped me figure out what I am good at. I realized I could rely on people like Joe to make things look good, and I could focus on what I did best. The fact that he made me feel inadequate as a designer wasn’t a bad thing. It was good.
I think we should all be grateful for people in our lives who far surpass us at certain skills. It helps us figure out what we are good at and what we don’t need to worry about.
Maybe you’re a writer and you meet a writer who blows you away with their skills. Perhaps you aren’t really gifted as a writer. Or maybe your skills as a writer are different than the other person’s. Maybe you need to develop your unique voice that’s nothing like your friend’s.
We’re all on different paths. We all have different drives, passions, and aptitudes that make us unique. If we’re mimicking someone or trying to become as good as someone else, you’re off your path. Get back on your own path and be uniquely you.
You’ve really helped me understand the issues. Thanks.