It’s so easy to look at what others are achieving and start doubting yourself. Their progress, their performance, their success – it can feel like a reflection of what you’re not doing.
But here’s the thing: when you compare yourself to someone else, you miss out on celebrating your own unique journey. You overlook the incredible progress you’ve made and the challenges you’ve overcome. Most of the time we don’t give ourselves enough credit for the work that we are doing. Let’s change that.
Your Journey is Yours Alone
Remember, everyone’s path is different. Your starting point, strengths, challenges, and goals are unique to you. Why waste energy comparing your progress to someone else’s when you’re running completely different races? And honestly, how boring would it be if everyone were exactly the same – same goals, same progress, same challenges? Yawn.
But here’s the catch: sometimes comparison is automatic. It’s where your mind goes first and that’s okay – awareness is the first step to breaking the cycle.
The Game-Changing Question
When you catch yourself comparing, ask this:
“IF I DID THIS SOLO, WOULD I BE HAPPY WITH IT?”
Take a gym example. You’re lifting weights and notice someone nearby lifting heavier. Your instinct might be to feel like your lift isn’t good enough. Pause. Ask yourself: “If I were here alone, without comparing myself to anyone, would I be proud of this effort?” Chances are, the answer is a YES.
Why This Question Works
The best thing about asking yourself this question is that it empowers you to define your own success. It reminds you that your achievements are valid and worthy, even if they don’t look like someone else’s. It encourages you to focus on your own progress and to celebrate the milestones you’ve reached, no matter how big or small. A win is a win and should be celebrated regardless of what the person next to you is doing.
Applying This Beyond the Gym
Now, this question also doesn’t have to specifically relate to strength training. It works in every area of your life:
- Running: Someone’s faster pace doesn’t diminish your accomplishment.
- Work: You’re learning something new, while they’ve been doing it for years. Celebrate your growth.
- Life: Their chapter 10 doesn’t invalidate your chapter 1.
Celebrate Your Wins
Next time you find yourself comparing, stop for 2 seconds, and ask yourself this question. The more you do it, the easier it will become. If you make an effort to do this, over time, you will rewire your mindset. You’ll shift from comparing yourself to others to celebrating your own wins.
Now go and focus on you, the progress you’ve made and most importantly, how far you’ve come.
