Recently, my coach challenged me to keep a journal for two days, where I jotted down every negative or unpleasant thought that crossed my mind.

At the end of the two days, I looked over the list and realized that almost everything had one thing in common: When I had the negative thought, I was actively comparing myself to others.

Everyone usually puts their best foot forward in the public eye or on social media.

We typically only see or hear about the good things going on in their lives and their successes. Most people usually share very little about what isn’t going well. I realized that I was falling into the trap of comparing my story, the good and the bad, to other people’s highlight reels.

This is an apples-to-oranges comparison that is rarely going to work out in my favor.

I’ve learned that nothing good or productive typically comes from beating myself up. Being kind to myself is so important. When I focus on my own journey, I can appreciate my progress and successes, no matter how small they may be. I can also learn from my mistakes without feeling like a complete failure.

This simple mindset shift of no longer comparing myself to others is already making me much happier and healthier.

It helps me set realistic goals and work towards them without feeling like I need to be better. By focusing on my journey, I can appreciate the unique path that I’m on and enjoy the ride without feeling like I’m constantly falling behind.

I recommend making this simple mindset shift to anyone who finds themselves frequently comparing themselves to others.

By focusing on your own journey, not comparing yourself to others, and being kind to yourself, you can appreciate your progress and successes, learn from your failures, and be much happier and healthier.