"Comparison is the thief of Joy".- Theodore Roosevelt
Over the past few weeks, maybe even longer than that, I have been comparing myself to others. This would be great, if this was motivating me ,but the opposite is happening.These constant comparisons have not only stole my joy, but has lead to some paralyzing roadblocks.These roadblocks have shown up in my life as different things, such as procrastination, avoidance, pity party and many other things.
As I sat down to write this very blog, I typed in comparison into the google search engine. There were hundred of images, web pages and pins that popped up. I started clicking away looking for the perfect image and reference material for this blog topic. As I continued to click, finding other bloggers discussing the same topic, I automatically started to compare. The negative chatter and thoughts ensued, someone already wrote about this topic and who will read my blog anyway. I thought to myself you might as well select another topic or better yet I will post another day.
Then I realized that I needed to post this blog and break this vicious cycle . This constant comparison to others, can be crippling and paralyzing. Comparison may be useful when used for friendly competition or to motivate. However, if it is becoming this negative tsunami of thoughts and stopping you from moving forward, its an issue.
Here are some tips to remember when you start to compare:
1. Is it True? When you start to compare yourself, your work or anything to someone else ask yourself if this is true. Most likely it is not. Take a minute and switch your thoughts to something positive.
2. Be patient. Be your bigger cheerleader instead of your worst critic. Take things one step at a time, knowing that you are working towards something great. Strive to be best and do your best everyday.
3. Connect with positive people. Stay connected with people that inspire, nourish and bring out the very best in you. Go where you are celebrated not tolerated!!
4. You were created unique and there is no one like you in the world. You should embrace this and realized that your voice and purpose need to be fulfilled and only YOU can do it.
