As humans we have a tendency to compare ourselves to others, it’s just what we do sometimes.
We look at other people’s lives and wonder why we aren’t where we want to be, automatically assuming that someone else’s life is so perfect.
I have personally compared my marriage, my body, and my parenting to other women who “seem” to just have it all together.
Have you ever thought to yourself…..
“Oh, their marriage looks so perfect, they must be so happy!”
“Her body is perfect, I wish I looked like that!”
“She is an awesome mother, wish I could be more like her.”
If the answer is “yes”, no worries, we have all compared ourself to others at some point in life whether we care to admit it or not.
It took me a long time to realize that what you “see” is not always reality. With the advent, of social media, the occurrence of comparison has increased and is even being linked with depression and anxiety.
“Social Media Comparison Depression” is a real thing, in fact so real there are tons of scholarly articles out there from research that has been conducted.
So, what can you do to make sure you aren’t falling victim to “Comparison Depression?”
I would like to share with you, my personal tactics in preventing comparison depression. To be perfectly honest, I am still a work in progress but as humans we are always learning and growing which is part of life’s journey.
Take a Break!
Let’s face it, social media can be addicting! You can find yourself scrolling away mindlessly for hours. As you scroll, you are looking at how “happy” everyone is and always traveling, exercising, doing things with their kids and just living it up!
When you find yourself wishing you had someone’s else’s life it’s time to take a break! Just know that most people’s social media is a “highlight reel” and is not a true representation their every day of life.
Be GRATEFUL!
If you find yourself desiring what someone else has, stop and take a moment to be thankful for what you DO have.
In life, so often we have a tendency to focus on what we don’t have and this will put you in a state of infinite unhappiness. I used to focus on what was lacking in my life instead of simply being grateful for what I have which lead to unnecessary frustration. Now that I practice gratefulness, I am a much happier person and I realize that it’s all about how you perceive things.
Just last week, I had a moment where I was lying in bed and reading a book. I just so happened to look over at my husband next to me and I realized that this very moment was something I used to dream about. I remember I used to watch TV shows where a couple would be in bed with perfectly arranged furniture, in particular, matching nightstands with a lamp on each side of the bed quietly reading before falling to sleep; I used to think, I can’t wait for that day. In that very moment, I realized it was “that day” and I was so grateful! It’s the little things!
Set GOALS! Create a PLAN! Take ACTION!
When you catch yourself wanting what someone else has, you must also think about what steps they may have taken to get there. Things don’t just happen, you have to set goals, create a plan and most importantly take ACTION!
You and only you have the power to change the direction of your life. If you are not satisfied with your current circumstances it’s up to you to do something about it! The time is now!
Realize that NO ONE is PERFECT!
Ummm can you say FILTER?!! Be aware that no one is perfect and people will filter, edit and embellish everything to “appear” to have it all. Please don’t be fooled. Just remember most people are only going to show the best parts of their life.
If we all were more honest about the good and bad in life, we could help so many others through our stories of struggle and triumph. It’s encouraging to know that it’s not just you that feels a certain way or experiences a certain obstacle, we all do and that REAL!
Just remember our trials can turn into testimonies that can help someone else.
Focus on Being the BEST version of YOU!
If you constantly try to be someone else you will never be happy. We are all uniquely made and we are different, this is what makes the world exciting! If everyone was the same, how boring the world would be!
You can however be the best version of YOU! Every day is a new chance to grow, learn and develop into the person you want to be. Be it a physical, professional or personal improvement you can always find a way to become better if that’s what you desire.
I leave you with this, JUST BE YOU! You will never succeed at being someone else. Focus on being the best version of YOU and watch yourself FLOURISH!
Find Health in Every Day!
Dr. Lindsay