When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everyone will respect you.”
― Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

I said previously that I liked the Tao te Ching.
I was just thinking the other day that writers walk the fine line of being in a highly competitive market and being part of a very supportive community. The way out is to not compete with others but be the best you that you can be. Your uniqueness, professionalism, and attitude will become your selling points and also reasons for respect. Ideally.