We've all done it. Whether it is through social media or in person, we've all internally wished we were someone else or have externally said "You're so lucky!". Although jealousy is a normal emotion it can consume us at times which has a negative impact. If you've caught yourself doing this, here are a couple of reasons to stop.
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Comparisons are unfair
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We typically compare what we see as the best part of someone with seemingly the worst in ourselves. This isn’t fair to us and will only make us feel helpless in the end.
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You can’t learn from others when you are comparing yourself to them
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Comparing yourself to others leads to bitterness, which shuts down any part of you that is open to understanding and observing. Instead of letting yourself become jealous, look at what they are doing to be successful and take away things you can learn from them.
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Comparisons distract you from improving yourself
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Putting energy into watching what other people are doing puts your life at a standstill. Instead of planning for your future there is a constant need to focus on others.
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Comparison often results in resenting the other person
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Whether we realize it or not, this constant comparison leads to negative feelings toward the other person as well as toward ourselves.
One of the easiest ways to stop comparing ourselves to others is to take a step back and appreciate the people, experiences and things we have in our lives already. If you are going to compare yourself to someone, it should only be yourself! By doing so you'll be able to see how far you've come and how much you have already accomplished.
If you are looking for more tips like this, check out Counselling Services workshops, especially Developing Your Compassionate Mind.