Have you ever found yourself scrolling through social media at 2 a.m., wallowing in self-doubt as you watched someone share their third vacation of the month? Karen’s “casual” yacht selfie created a midnight catastrophe.
Nobody asked for this Instagram vs. reality show.
Let’s admit it: we are all guilty of engaging in comparison. It’s as if we’re all stars in our own reality shows, but we only get to see the blooper reels while everyone else’s episodes are perfectly polished.
You know what’s funny? Who are you envious of right now? They’re most likely lounging in their jammies, reading through someone else’s account, wondering why their life isn’t as great as that person’s. It’s a never-ending cycle of “grass is greener” syndrome, yet everyone’s grass is actually a really fantastic photo filter. 🌱
The Hidden Chapters
When comparing our Chapter 2 to someone else’s Chapter 20, we often overlook the secret chapters that no one posts about. Each book has a unique writing style:
- Some people start their stories with a plot twist.
- Others begin with a steady burn.
- Some contain more characters.
- Others provide more action scenes.
And, guess what? None of these books follow a set publication schedule.
Do you have a friend who recently purchased their dream home? You didn’t notice how they saved money by eating nothing but ramen noodles for six years. That coworker who appears to have it all together? It’s possible that they are barely surviving on three glasses of coffee. Is there an influencer who maintains an ideal morning routine? A chaotic outtake reel may never be seen. ☕
Plot Twist: Your Journey is Supposed to Be Different
Consider how boring it would be if everyone’s life went exactly as planned. What if we all:
- Were married at the same age
- Got our ideal jobs on the same day
- Learned how to fold fitted sheets at the same time?
(Though, to be honest, certain mysteries of the cosmos are intended to remain unanswered. Look at you, fitted sheets. 🛏️)
Your journey shouldn’t resemble anyone else’s, as you are truly unique! You are the protagonist of your own unique story, complete with your own timeframe, problems, and triumphs.
The Social Media Mirage
Social media is akin to a magical performance; it revolves around the skill of selective disclosure.
- Behind every “I woke up like this” post: 27 deleted photographs and a lighting crisis
- Every “just closed this huge deal!” A slew of unanswered emails and rejected bids
- The “living my best life!” caption: Possibly just trying to stay positive 📱
Write Your Own Story
Instead of comparing your life to others, consider this revolutionary approach: Compare yourself to who you were yesterday. Are you:
- Kinder?
- Stronger?
- Finally remembering to water your plants?
That is growth, baby! 🌿
The Plot Thickens
The truth is, if you’re preoccupied with comparing your life to someone else’s, you may be overlooking the captivating plot twists within your own narrative. Maybe your chapter 5 differs from their chapter 5 due to the fact that you are writing in a completely different genre—and that is not only acceptable, but also the ideal situation.
The Happy (Non) Ending
So, the next time you feel the need to compare your journey to someone else’s, remember:
- You are not falling behind.
- You are not failing.
- You are not living your life incorrectly.
- You’re right where you need to be in your own tale.
And hey, if you absolutely have to compare, compare yourself to a houseplant: growing at your own speed, demanding your particular blend of sunlight and water, and occasionally dramatic when you don’t get enough attention. 🪴
Remember that the only person you must improve upon is yourself. Even so, some days are simply about survival, and that’s absolutely OK. ✨
P.S. If you’re reading this while scrolling through social media at 2 a.m., this is your cue to go to bed. In the morning, your journey will remain unique to you. 😴