Significant Impact: from K Award to Your First Big R01

How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others (Revisited)

Sarah Dobson Episode 67

In the high-stakes world of academia, competition is everywhere—from landing a faculty position to securing grant funding.

It's easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others, but instead of success, this can lead to self-sabotage. In this episode, we explore how comparison, competition, and critique—although vital in academia—often work against you.

I'll share strategies on how to shift your focus away from others and keep your eyes on your own paper. By challenging yourself to grow and asking meaningful questions about your work, you can build a career that is both stimulating and sustainable.

Tune in to this episode of the podcast to discover:

  • Why comparing yourself to others in academia is inherently unfair and unproductive
  • How to turn competition inward to fuel your growth
  • The importance of focusing on meaningful work that aligns with your values and goals

Listen in and learn how to avoid the pitfalls of comparison and competition, and instead, create a career path that is uniquely yours.