What Happens When We Stop Competing?

Jane and Kim had been friends since childhood. They had shared hobbies, celebrated each other's successes, and often found themselves interested in the same things. When they graduated with degrees in fashion design, both accepted positions as designers at the same fashion company.

Alongside her job, Kim began working on her own designs in the evenings. She collected fabrics, experimented with shapes, and gradually built a portfolio of ideas for a future independent label. As she had done throughout their studies, she regularly showed her work to Jane.

Jane enjoyed seeing what Kim was creating. Before long, she began putting together a portfolio of her own. She spent evenings sketching designs, researching fabrics, and organizing her work. When Kim added new pieces to her collection, Jane often found herself counting the designs in her own portfolio.

They continued working at the same company, sharing lunch breaks and talking about fashion. Sometimes they discussed their personal projects; other times, they talked about work or made plans for the weekend.

One evening, Jane spread her designs across the dining table. Her laptop was open beside them, and a sketchbook lay near the edge. She picked up a pencil and turned to a fresh page.

A Question to Explore
What would creating look like if you didn't have to compare yourself with anyone else?