In the pursuit of learning a musical instrument, such as the harp, it is natural to feel inclined to measure our progress against others. There are numerous online harp groups where learners can share their experiences and give tips and encouragement to one another, and for the most part this is a really wonderful thing.

However, it can be tempting to compare your progress with others who are also learning to play, and this can prove counterproductive, stifling growth and dampening your musical journey with feelings of self-doubt or distraction which can hinder your progress.

In this blog, I will delve into the reasons why it is better to avoid comparing ourselves with others and focus on our individual progress. By embracing this mindset, we can unlock our true potential, cultivate our unique musical voice, and find joy in the process.

1. Every Journey is Unique

   Learning a musical instrument is a personal voyage, and each individual embarks on this journey with their own set of strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. No two individuals learn at the same pace or in the same way. We all have our own unique learning curve and just because someone else is progressing faster than you does not mean that you are not making progress - progress is relative! Comparing ourselves to others disregards the fact that everyone follows a different path, has different goals, and progresses at their own pace. It is essential to remember that we are all unique, and our musical journeys should be celebrated as such. Instead of comparing, focus on appreciating and nourishing your own progress. As long as you are putting in the effort and seeing improvement, you are progressing!
   

2. The Danger of Discouragement

   Constantly comparing our progress with others can distract you from your own goals and can lead to feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy, and discouragement. Music is a deeply personal form of expression, and when we constantly measure ourselves against others, we risk losing sight of our own potential. Each person's progress is influenced by various factors, including prior experience, practice time, and personal circumstances. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. Some people may excel at reading sheet music, while others may have a great ear for music. When you compare your progress with others, you may be overlooking your own strengths and weaknesses. By focusing on your strengths and weaknesses, you can tailor your practice sessions to your own needs. This will help you make progress more efficiently and effectively. So, instead of allowing comparison to dampen our enthusiasm, we should channel our energy into self-reflection, setting achievable goals, and celebrating our own achievements. Whether it is mastering a particular piece or learning a new technique, focusing on your own goals will help you stay motivated and make progress. A practise journal such as this one can help you with your goal tracking - https://www.ailierobertson.com/harp-music-shop/practice-journal
   

3. Celebrate Individuality

   Music is a beautiful art that thrives on individuality and self-expression. It is something that you are doing for yourself, not for anyone else. When you focus too much on what others are doing, you may lose sight of why you started learning to play in the first place. Comparing ourselves to others can stifle our unique voice and creativity. By focusing on our own progress, we can explore and develop our own distinct musical style, allowing our personality to shine through our playing. Embracing our individuality enables us to create something truly authentic and meaningful. Let us embrace the joy of self-discovery, uninhibited by the constraints of comparison.
   

4. Enjoy the Journey, Not the Destination

   Learning a musical instrument is not solely about reaching a predetermined destination; it is a lifelong pursuit of growth and self-improvement. By constantly comparing ourselves with others, we risk fixating on the destination and missing the beauty of the journey itself. Music is meant to be enjoyed, and every step forward should be celebrated. By focusing on our own progress, we can savor the small victories, appreciate the learning process, and find fulfillment in every milestone we achieve.
   

5. Foster a Supportive Community

   Rather than viewing other musicians as competitors, we should strive to build a supportive community where we can inspire and be inspired by each other. By shifting our mindset from comparison to collaboration, we create an environment that nurtures growth and learning. Sharing experiences, insights, and challenges with fellow musicians on a page such as ‘Harp Chat’ can enrich our musical journey and open doors to new opportunities. Together, we can celebrate each other's progress, learn from one another, and foster a sense of camaraderie.
   

Conclusion

In the pursuit of learning a musical instrument, comparing ourselves to others can hinder our progress and dampen our joy. By recognising the uniqueness of our own journey, celebrating individuality, focusing on our own process, and fostering a supportive community, we can break free from the limitations of comparison. Remember, it is not the comparison that defines us, but the progress we make towards our own goals and dreams.