Comparisons

When we are around many people in our daily lives, we sometimes compare ourselves to others. We do this on so many levels and in so many different areas.

We want to ask ourselves: does this benefit us?

Occasionally it is good to do a comparison, in order to feel more normal, to establish what the acceptable range is, or maybe to have a little motivation, inspiration, and competition.

Sometimes it isn't healthy, and we can feel worse simply by looking at others.

Another important question to ask: are we making fair comparisons?

The key to this is that we tend to compare our inner selves that contain all of our flaws, secrets, and negative thoughts, with the outer selves that other people present.

You'll notice this when you see someone who looks calm and confident in a social setting, and you feel as though you could never be that way, but you hear from the person later, "I was a nervous wreck the whole time." The media present only the best (or the worst) of celebrities, which also sends unrealistic messages.

When you find yourself comparing, ask yourself if it's healthy and fair before making any decisions.