Have you ever looked at someone else’s success and thought, Why am I not where I need to be? In a world where social media constantly showcases highlight reels, it’s easy to feel like we’re falling behind. But the truth is, we’re all on our own journey—life isn’t a competition.
Comparison is a natural instinct, but when it turns into a habit, it can be incredibly destructive. Whether it’s career milestones, relationships, financial success, or personal achievements, measuring ourselves against others can lead to self-doubt, anxiety, and frustration. The reality is, no two paths are the same, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Think about where you were five years ago (wow lockdown days!). Would past-you be proud of present-you? Often, we’re so focused on what’s ahead that we forget to acknowledge how far we’ve come. Personal growth isn’t always loud or visible; sometimes, it’s in the quiet victories, the small habits we’ve changed, and the challenges we’ve overcome.
Instead of letting comparison bring you down, use it as motivation. Admire others’ success, but don’t let it ruin your own progress. Celebrate people’s wins and learn from their experiences without feeling like you’re in competition. Everything unfolds in its own time. Just because you haven’t reached a certain milestone yet doesn’t mean you never will. Life has a way of aligning things at the right moment—trust that you are exactly where you’re meant to be.
The devil of comparison steals joy, but self-acceptance brings peace. Your journey is uniquely yours, and there’s no race to the finish line. Stay focused, be patient, and remember: you are enough, exactly as you are.
My task for you: Wake up and find one positive thing about your day—maybe it’s the fact that you can take a walk in the countryside, or that you can see the beautiful sunshine. Focus on the good, and let it guide your perspective.
One thing I started doing months ago is when I wake up, I try and think of three positive things that are going to happen that day, it could be things as simple as buying a hot chocolate, knowing a parcle will arrive that day or if I’m meeting family or friends!
I agree, comparison is such a natrual instinct in us all, it’s really hard to snap out of it! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk