Stop Comparing People

[MomOfTwo]

We love to compare ourselves to others and vice versa. I hate it when I hear myself doing it. When I look in the mirror, I try to compare myself to my friend who has shinier hair than me or more slender body than me. I have to learn to appreciate myself rather than comparing myself to others.

[girlchild34]

Hey MomofTwo, you may be surprised to hear that social comparison actually starts at a very early age. As children, we quickly discover that all of us have different lifestyles and opportunities. Steven Furtick sums it up by saying, "The reason why we struggle with insecurity is because we compare our behind-the-scenes with everyone else's highlight reel."

I always tell myself that my comparison with others should result in being motivated to work harder and achieve much more.

[MerryMe]

MomofTwo, you are already on the way of self appreciation because you are catching yourself with the thing that you don't want to have. Continue counting the blessings instead of the things that you lack.

[MomOfTwo]

Both of you are correct in your own perspective.


@girlchild34, I get it that instead of being down about myself that my flaws should make me more determined to become a better person.


@MerryMe, I also understand that in order for me not to be too negative, I should see my blessings instead.

[Layla]

It's so hard NOT to compare ourselves to others when we're taught to do it from such an early age. From grades to who's part of the, "cool crowd," we're constantly taught to compare ourselves against our peers. It doesn't help that society teaches women to be dissatisfied wit our bodies - always. We're always supposed to want to be thinner, look younger, have the best fashion sense, etc.

I think it's wonderful that you want to love and accept yourself. It's been a long battle for me, and I'd love to hear if you find anything that helps you learn to love and accept yourself just the way you are.

[SusanWGF]

Thanks for the uplifting post. I often compare myself to others and it makes me feel down about myself. It's a great thing to try and build yourself up instead of constantly putting yourself down. I hope you're able to stay positive. Let us know how it goes.

[LeeAnn]

I agree that it's hard to not do this. I really struggled with it at my last job. Everyone around me was noticeably younger, and I kept wondering if they thought I couldn't keep up.