“Comparison is the thief of joy”
What does this really mean?
This quote is deep and speaks volumes. Comparing is a great tool if used in the right instances and contexts. But if used in other ways, comparison can be a real thief of your own joy and can create separation.
When we compare our lives to the lives of others, it can hurt us. Life is not a one size fits all nor is it black and white. Everyone is different and unique. Everyone has their own stories, accomplishments, struggles. Our journey here on Earth is meant only for us. We cannot look at others and compare how our journey is going.
You don’t have to go to college, get a desk job, get married, buy a house, have children. Life is whatever you create. If you want to create those things, that's great, but it’s whatever path you decide to take, at any time. Time and age don’t matter in the grand scheme of things. All that truly matters is that you’re happy on your journey.
We can’t let comparison determine our value or validate our journey. Everyone is creating different things at different times. And it’s beautiful that we are all the same but different. We are all here on this journey, for same but different reasons.
If we are constantly comparing our lives to others for value and validation, we will be left feeling like our own accomplishments aren’t important. We won’t be able to appreciate or be grateful for our journey. Comparing also means we can’t genuinely be happy for other's accomplishments. If we can’t celebrate our own victories, then we certainly won’t for others.
Comparison robs us of our own happiness and joy.
It’s a natural instinct to evaluate ourselves and a natural reaction to that is by comparison. It’s helpful to remind yourself of this quote at those times. If anything, compare yourself to your earlier self. Maybe reflect on how you handled things at one point, and evaluate how you could improve the next time something similar happens. I believe that can be a healthy tool.
What can we take away from all this? That comparing our lives to the lives of others isn’t worth it. Similarity, comparing ourselves to others isn’t worth it. Be your true authentic self! Everyone else is already taken!! But for real, you are strong, beautiful, and only you can be and create everything you are and do. Don’t let comparison be a mind trick. Don’t fall into letting it validate false thoughts of your journey or self. You are right where you are supposed to be. You have the power to change things and make things happen. Show yourself self-love and respect. Be confident and have hope. Show up for yourself and don’t let comparison steal your joy.
Much love & light,
Sarah Del Rey