How Can I Compete?

Episode #303 | Art by Lee White

Can you hold your own against all the other illustrators in the world? In this minisode, Jake Parker and Anthony Wheeler reframe how you think about success and competition.

SHOW LINKS

Publisher’s Weekly: Book Output Topped Four Million in 2025

Dark Stalker, illustrated by Jake Parker

Brandt Woods: If You Feel Stuck

Episode 198: Brandt Woods Interview

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• If you want to be part of the culture, participate in the conversation. Holding back only guarantees your voice will never be heard.

• Even amid oversaturation, excellence rises to the top.

• Control what you can control: honing your craft and sharing it consistently. 

• There will always be consumers; be one of the few creators.

SUMMARY

Do you fear you’ll never be able to hold your own against the millions of other illustrators in the world?

With self-publishing lowering the barriers to entry, almost anyone can write or illustrate a book. Standing out from the crowd can feel next to impossible. 

A few key truths provide an encouraging perspective. First, every field has competition. Rather than running from it, join the conversation. Let go of your fear of failing and participate. What do you have to lose?

Second, a lowered barrier to entry leads to lower-quality work. AI makes it possible to churn out a book in an afternoon, and many people take advantage of that, but the quality of computer-generated work doesn’t hold a candle to human artistry. You’re not competing with AI slop, so don’t stress about it, even as it becomes increasingly pervasive. Make excellent, human work, and you’ll rise to a higher tier naturally.

Third, there are more consumers than creators in the world. If you’re a creator, there will always be an audience for your work. Develop your voice, share it consistently, and you’ll find people excited to support you. There’s enough success to go around.