I think one of the easiest things for us to do, is to forget who we are. All too often I find myself comparing, and I know it’s a constant problem for pretty much everyone. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned from it, is that comparison kills. Really though, there’s not much benefit to putting yourself up against someone’s good side, because most of the time that is the only side we see of the people around us.
For me I usually assume that just because someone’s instagram is perfect, they run fast times, and seem to have a lot of friends- it obviously means that they’re always happy and everything is going good, all of the time. But see that’s the problem here. You never really know what’s going on behind the screen and the second you start to worry about other people, comparison kicks in. Now don’t get me wrong, comparison isn’t some evil concept that I’m trying to get rid of in my life. Although it can create negative thoughts and feelings, it’s also a powerful tool that can inspire and motivate you.
I challenge anyone who is reading this, to give the negative comparison a break. Start thinking of yourself (and I mean it in the most unselfish way, if that’s even possible) and try to BE yourself a little more. Whether it’s at school, home, practice, or when you’re alone. Writing my thoughts and ideas down always helps, 100% of the time.
A few things that prove to boost my attitude/happiness/well being/good perspective/whateverelseimmissing
- social media breaks (I’m on one right now!!)
These usually work best if you do them for more than 4 days, in my opinion. It’s a really good way to get focused, become a little (actually a lot) more aware of the people/what’s going on around you, and also just to detox from how our social media can mentally and physically drain us. While it may be hard to give up valuable connection to the outside world, I don’t think there’s a single bad thing about it in the long run- 10/10 would recommend.
- make an extra special effort to be nice to someone
Or maybe not someone, but a lot of people at the same time. I don’t think being nice to people is that much of a hassle, so why can’t we try to do it more often? Plus it’s a two sided bonus, both you AND the other person feel pretty good afterwards.
- focus on a relationship
It doesn’t matter if this is your parents, siblings, boyfriend, or classmates. Try to get closer with someone by learning more about them. It’s not like you’re trying to make a new best friend, but strengthening a relationship with someone in your life just makes you feel good. I was a little hesitant to add this one because I don’t really know how to sum it up into the perfect words, but just try it and you’ll see what I mean.
- try to grow deeper in something you believe in
Since I’m religious, I immediately think of my faith on this one. Though it doesn’t necessarily have to be that. Maybe it’s your morals or something you aren’t afraid to stand up for. Whatever it may be, immerse yourself in that. Opinion is beautiful and our ability to think and have our own thoughts/beliefs is a pretty cool thing.