Quote:
It is just when I follow one of my tunes with a reference track that I hear the differences.

This is a good practice. It keeps you honest with your work, however you are comparing a 'mx' with a mastered piece.
IMO,
Your mixes just need mastering (and a little more dynamic headroom for such). The 'mix' aspect is just fine.


Make your sound your own!
.. I do not work here, but the benefits are still awesome