Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

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Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

We compare ourselves to others all the time. We compare ourselves to friends on social media, colleagues at the office, and even strangers at the gym. We rate our appearance, possessions, performance, and even our problems. In most cases, comparing yourself to others is extremely counterproductive. As Theodore Roosevelt said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.”

Here are six reasons why you should stop comparing yourself to others:

Perfection is an illusion. We’re often blind to the real challenges that people face. Although you might think someone doesn’t have a care in the world, they might be like a duck — calm on the surface but paddling like mad under the water.

Comparisons are hardly ever fair. It’s difficult to judge a running race if people begin at different starting lines. In fact, most of those boasting of hitting a home run were actually born on third base.

Comparison can turn into judgment. It is very easy for a well-intentioned comparison to turn into harsh judgment.

Beauty is subjective. Some things can’t be quantified; beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Some things can’t be changed. You might want to be younger — good luck with that.

Comparison can turn friends into adversaries. Some things start out as a friendly competition, but end up with hurt feelings.

Keeping up with the Joneses is like chasing a rainbow. While it might look beautiful from a distance, it will always be beyond your grasp. If you appreciate what you have, you’ll never want for more.

Is your satisfaction based on what you have or on what you don’t have?

You were born with a unique set of fingerprints. In order to realize your true potential, it’s important to be bold, live your own life, and accept responsibility for the choices that you make. According to Zen Shin, “A flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it. It just blooms.” Stop comparing yourself to others.