Bigger, better, faster, fancier
Learning to avoid the comparison trap
So here’s the bad news: there will always be people who have more money, a nicer home, more obedient children, a more successful career and a better body than you do. The good news? It’s possible to learn how to avoid the comparison game and jealousy that come along with this fact. Here’s how to start changing the way you think about these things.
• Practice living a life of gratitude. Just as there will always be people who “have it better” than we do, there are many more who have it much worse. When you find yourself comparing aspects of your life to the lives of those around you, remember how blessed you truly are. If this is hard for you to picture, try volunteering at a homeless shelter or other charity. You’ll quickly realize what a charmed life you live.
• Take some time to think about the source of your self worth. Many of us derive our self esteem from our careers, our bank accounts or our children, but none of these things are a measure of you as a person…no, not even your kids. So examine the parts of your personality that make you you, and try to put more stock in those things.
• Start spending more time with people who don’t compare themselves to others, practice gratitude and are comfortable and content with who they are. When you surround yourself with people like that, their positive characteristics are sure to rub off on you.
If you have children, now’s the time to start showing them how to be happy with who they are and how to avoid the comparison game. The best way you can teach them is by modeling this behavior for them yourself. It’s not an easy task, but it’s important if you want to live a full, meaningful life.