Comparing ourselves to other people seems to be getting easier nowadays due to the prevalence of social media and our ability to follow our favourite idols and celebrities who often showcase only the very best of what life offers. Nice cars, nice houses, nice clothes – everything that looks glamorous.
But what is it that makes us compare ourselves to others? From my experience as a counsellor, there are many things it could be. Fundamentally, I believe it comes down to our lack of belief in ourselves. When we compare ourselves to others and say ‘They are so lucky’ ‘My life is so miserable’ ‘I will never achieve what they have’ – these statements enforce a deeper unconscious belief that we are not enough and that our self-esteem is low. Some of us are able to take this negative perception, and the subsequent negative emotions and channel these into actions that allow for positive outcomes to take place. However, if these thoughts and negative feelings build up, it can be devastating for us in the longer-term.
Understanding that our need to compare ourself to others comes down to how we value our own worth, will help you to stop the negative cycle of comparing yourself to other people. Imagine what would happen if you used that time and energy towards enhancing your own personal growth or accomplishment of your goals. The through that work, and in achieving the goals you set for yourself, you will be rewarded and become incentivised to work more rather than suffer from comparing yourself to others who do not even know you and to a world that has not yet recognised or seen the true value you have to offer.
I touch upon this topic in a video on my YouTube channel.