Why Comparison Hurts Your Career Transition—And How to Stop

The Trap of Comparison in Academia

Comparison isn’t just something that shows up during the job search—it’s baked into the PhD experience. PhDs tend to be "Type A" people, which often means they are overachievers constantly comparing themselves to others to determine if they are achieving "enough". From day one of grad school, you’re surrounded by metrics: Who has the most publications? Who got a prestigious fellowship? Who is already getting campus interviews before defending their dissertation? It becomes second nature to measure your own worth against your peers.

I know, because I was guilty of it too. (And, boy, does it make you feel shitty.)

This mindset doesn’t magically disappear once you graduate. And when you’re navigating the uncertainty of a career transition—whether that’s pursuing a tenure-track job or moving into a non-academic role—comparison can become downright dangerous.

Why Comparison Is Self-Defeating

• It creates unrealistic timelines. Everyone’s path looks different depending on field, funding, personal circumstances, and sheer luck.

• It undervalues your strengths. Constant comparison blinds you to your own skills and accomplishments.

• It drains your confidence. Instead of focusing on your progress, you focus on what you haven’t achieved.

What starts as a “normal” academic habit can quickly become self-defeating.

How to Break the Cycle

1. Define your own markers of success. Instead of “they got a job,” focus on “I made three new networking connections this week.”

2. Limit social media comparisons. LinkedIn updates showcase wins, not the months (or years) of struggle behind them.

3. Reframe others’ success. Instead of “they beat me,” think “their path proves this transition is possible.”

4. Track your own growth. Keep a job search journal or spreadsheet so you can see tangible progress over time.

5. Lean on your support group. Whether it’s peers, mentors, or friends outside academia, let them remind you of your strengths. Even better—ask them to call you out when you start spiraling into comparison. Accountability helps you reset.

Final Thought

Comparison may feel like an unavoidable part of the PhD mentality, but it doesn’t serve you in the long run. Trying to get a handle on it is crucial—whether you’re aiming for a tenure-track role or a non-academic career.

Your path is your own. Celebrate small wins, focus on your goals, and remind yourself: your value is not diminished just because someone else got there first.

© 2025 Marya T. Mtshali. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission from the author.