One of the worst things you could do to yourself is compare yourself to someone else. Comparison to others is taxing both mentally and physically and can lead down a path of negative self-talk, disrupting your chance at true happiness.

The moment we begin comparing ourselves to others, we’re immediately putting them on a metaphorical pedestal while simultaneously knocking ourselves down. The sad thing is that most of us don’t even recognize when we’re doing it. The top three comparisons you should recognize can be found below.

These comparisons can affect both men and women. You’re definitely not alone. Check out our ‘healthier fixes’ for suggestions on how to combat negative comparison thinking.

Physical comparison

From scrolling through social feeds, to reading trendy magazines, and everything else that falls in between, it’s hard to not to compare – or at least notice things on others that you would like to emulate. However, admiring someone’s hair, clothes, or toned physique, is different than noticing those features and immediately putting yourself down in comparison (i.e., I wish I had a 6-pack, I wish I had that feature, I wish I had that confidence.) It’s time to stop. Stop idolizing others. It’s time to turn that spotlight on you.

  • Healthier Fix: First, recognize that you are comparing yourself in an unhealthy way, and instead try thinking about one thing you love about yourself. Every time a negative comparison comes to mind, think of something else you like about yourself. This small change will help lead to a more positive way of thinking.
  • Physical activity has also been shown to help improve feelings of self-confidence – so find your favorite hobby, sport, or exercise and add that to your daily/weekly routine!

Financial comparison

As the saying goes, money doesn’t buy happiness – but that doesn’t stop a lot of us from thinking it just might. Financial comparison often stems from the thought process of, “Well if I only had this, then I would be happy…”, “If I only made this much money, I wouldn’t worry as much…”, “If only…”, whatever the case may be. The problem with comparing yourself to others financially is that it really distracts you from appreciating what you already have. While it is healthy to have goals and dreams to build toward, it is unhealthy to spend time worried about what you don’t have.

  • Healthier Fix: If you’re unhappy where you are, schedule an appointment with a financial advisor. This way, you’ll have a better understanding of where you are, where you want to be, and a roadmap of how to get there.

Ideological comparison

This one is a bit tougher to explain but try thinking of it this way. Social media has a way of highlighting the best parts of our lives (usually). We see the smiles, the getaways, the engagements and baby showers. We see the fun, the friends, the house, the cars. We see the best parts, and that has a way of changing our thinking. It can lead to jealousy or wanting another’s life. We create this idea of what another’s life is, when we should be focused on appreciating our own. It’s kind of like how that old saying goes, the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. What you’re seeing, isn’t the full picture.

  • Healthier Fix: Comparison takes the focus away from ourselves and shines the spotlight on someone else. But the focus should be on ourselves. Taking time to appreciate what we do have, instead of what we don’t, helps us learn to be more grateful. Try writing down 3-5 things you’re grateful for at the end of each day and if you still find yourself comparing another’s life to yours, it might be time to take a break from social media and see if that helps change your mindset.

Life is a journey – embrace it and cherish it! Your path will not be the same as anyone else’s. You are unique and should embrace your own story, not compare it to someone else’s. Interested in working out towards your goals at City Sports Club? Try a guest pass on us and meet like-minded individuals who are all working towards bettering themselves!