Since the beginning of creation there's always been competition/comparison.
Within the quilting field it's no different. We see our skills based on those around us, whether it be the board, a guild, a casual sewing group, family member. In this way, it's not always a bad thing, if we maintain the goal of learning for our own benefit, not at the expense of someone else.
What's the difference between the blue ribbon quilts at major shows to the efforts on display at the local guilds?
We're not all at the same skill levels and that's OK. What brings us together is the shared sentiments of the craft.
At least that's my take.