Are you finding yourself constantly comparing yourself to others? Here are some tips to stop comparing yourself to other people and their lives and get back to living your own!
“Comparison is the thief of joy” -Theodore Roosevelt
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When I was younger, I was always comparing myself to other people. Their possessions, talents, grades, clothing sizes, literally anything and everything. Being very insecure of myself, the comparisons sort of took over my life.
I thought that when I grew up, I would finally be able to stop the nonsense and be content. I thought that I would have more freedom, become successful, and do whatever I wanted to make me happy. Boy, was I wrong,
The truth is, this mindset doesn’t just go away on it’s own. The feelings of insecurity and dissatisfaction followed me into my adult years. I literally had everything I had planned for in my younger years, but now it seemed as if it wasn’t enough.
Other people still had more. More freedom, wealth, attractiveness, a larger home, and nicer things. The desire for more and more material possessions was taking control over my heart and mind.
I finally came to a realization that nothing that the world could give me would bring me happiness. Everything passes. I would be wasting my time trying to keep up. I decided to just work on myself and practice gratitude for the things I do have.
Practicing gratitude is one great way to stop comparing yourself to others, but there are also a few other ways to help you stop the comparisons.
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
Practice Gratitude
One great way to stop comparing yourself to others is to practice gratitude. Make a list, either in your head or written down, about all the things to have in your life that you are thankful for. You might realize that a lot of the things you have, others might not. For me, it’s my relationship with God, my marriage, a roof over my head, my car, and my job. It’s simple things like this that make such a big impact in your life that are taken for granted most of the time.
Acknowledge Sacrifices
If you happen to be comparing you own success to someone else’s, ask yourself, what were some sacrifices that person had to make? Would you be willing to make the same sacrifices to get to where they are? Many times, the answer is no. Perhaps you enjoy having more time and freedom instead of more money and success. Maybe you wouldn’t have had the time to spend with your kids if you were at work all the time. You are no less important and success is dependent on how you decide to view it.
Unfollow Triggers
I’m talkin about social media triggers for those of you who follow people you might envy and compare yourself to. Perhaps you envy their success, looks, or possessions, regardless, it’s not doing you any good. There is nothing wrong with taking a break from social media or unfollowing people that make you feel negatively about yourself. It doesn’t mean this person did something wrong, but you might need some time to work on yourself and shift your mindset.
Enjoy the Simple Things
Enjoy the simple things in life! Those tend to be the best and will give you comfort and joy. Living a minimalist lifestyle is a great way to appreciate the simple things in life. Less stuff and more room for the things that actually matter. For me, the simple things are enjoying a cup of tea, having a clean, tidy, and cozy home, and getting outside for some sunshine.
Compare Yourself to Yourself
I am not writing this to tell you that you are perfect just the way you are and that you need to put yourself first all the time in order to be happy. It is a good thing to notice what you should work on to improve yourself. This doesn’t necessarily mean becoming super fit and having the best clothing items. Rather, maybe you could be more patient, more disciplined, and kinder. If you aren’t working on yourself, you really aren’t growing. Of course, this could also mean fitness goals or something similar. But just remember not to get caught up in trying to be perfect!
I also want to remind you that there is nothing wrong with wanting success, just don’t let it control you. Focus on what makes you unique, on what your own talents are, and the things that actually give you joy! There is nothing more freeing than ending those destructive comparisons to other people.
