You are absolutely right about how damaging comparison can be. Sadly, I think it is part of human nature to compare. But we can overcome the desire to compare ourselves to others. Part of it comes from having the self confidence to know that our writing, no matter the quality, can convey a a particular message. Especially if the reader is looking for that specific message. And even if no one benefits from my own writing, I still take comfort knowing that writing it benefited me. Sometimes, those lessons are more important. If there is a story within you...do your utmost to set it free. Thanks for the excellent post @bex-dk. See you in the Fiction Workshop!