The Impact of Comparsion

October 28, 2024 - 1:06 AM

Here's my second attempt at a blog post. I used to write (not blogs) a lot in HS and college, but life got in the way.

Living in the year of 2024, comparison has become second nature for many of us. I know, we’ve heard this over and over for the past 10-15 years already, but it’s much more apparent than ever before. Whether it’s scrolling through social media, seeing the achievements of our peers, or measuring our progress against the standards of society, we often find ourselves caught in a never ending loop of evaluation that can greatly affect our self perception and overall sense of fulfillment. The Impact of Comparison is both negative and positive -- from understanding its roots in psychology to examining its influence on our relationships and overall well being. 

Comparison often leads many of us, including myself, to feelings of self doubt. And it sucks. When we measure our worth against others, especially peers, it’s easy to fixate on what we haven’t accomplished, ultimately distorting our self image and lowering our self esteem. This constant comparison can create resentment and jealousy, making it difficult to celebrate others' successes, which detracts from our own happiness. Unhealthy comparison prevents us from appreciating our unique journeys and progress, but it can also spaark growth. By recognizing our challenges, we can use that awareness to motivate self improvement. Comparison isn't always negative. It can inspire and foster community by highlighting everyone’s unique strengths and challenges. When we see others succeed, we want to succeed. It drives us to pursue our own goals and reach our potential. If approached constructively, comparison can be what guides us towards self improvement. However, if taken negatively, it can hinder our growth. To wrap it up, the impact of comparison is complex and multifaceted. It can either inspire or discourage. By acknowledging unhealthy comparisons and embracing the positive, we can cultivate a much more balanced perspective. Focus on your individual journey, celebrate your achievements, and support one another. The only person to compare yourself to is your past self - aim to become a better version of who you already are. Keep growing.