This approach shouldn't be seen as a bad thing. Learn how this practice can bring out your most authentic self!

Friday: Mindfulness by Miles FROM THE DESK OF MILES EVERSON: Hi! Ready to delve into a new mindfulness discussion in this article? Every Friday, we share essential insights about health and lifestyle with a goal to make a positive impact on your life. That’s why today, we are excited to share how practicing mindfulness whenever you compare yourself with others can contribute to achieving personal growth. Keep reading below to gain new and healthy perspectives about comparisons. CEO, MBO Partners Chairman of the Advisory Board, The I Institute

This approach shouldn't be seen as a bad thing. Learn how this practice can bring out your most authentic self! Several studies show that individuals who constantly compare themselves with others experience one or both of these outcomes: Motivation to improve Self-dissatisfaction However, as a few other studies report, comparisons often tend to result in the latter, as comparing oneself with others steals one’s joy and leads to the development of negative thoughts. … but did you know comparing yourself with others can be done in a healthier and more mindful way? In today’s feature, we’ll discuss how mindfulness can transform this comparison into a more constructive practice. The Psychology Behind Comparing Yourself With Others Psychology states that comparisons are a normal part of humans' daily lives. In fact, the Theory of Social Comparison states people assess their own personal and social worth, including their attitudes, abilities, and traits, based on how they compare themselves with others. Individuals also engage in self-comparisons to set benchmarks for self-evaluation. The thing is, while comparing oneself can be a great motivator, it can also be detrimental to a person’s well-being when done negatively. This could: Lower self-esteem Hinder personal happiness Impede personal growth Affect social relationships … but that doesn’t always have to be that way. The good news? Incorporating mindfulness into such comparisons can turn out for the better! Practicing mindfulness whenever you start comparing yourself with others is good for your well-being, as it allows you to view other people as an inspiration and recognize how beautifully different you are from them. So, for those of you who frequently compare yourself with others, here are some tips to help you do that healthily and mindfully: Use your comparisons with others as a motivation for growth. For instance: If you observe someone who performs better than you, use it as an inspiration to enhance and improve your own performance. After all, when you compare yourself with others, you become aware of the qualities you need to improve in yourself. This drives you to work towards becoming a better version of yourself. Use your comparisons with others as a guide to success. Comparing yourself with others helps you understand where others excel and where you excel. When done correctly, comparison enhances your outlook in life, refines your strategies in navigating challenges, and sets clear personal goals. Additionally, comparing yourself with others helps you explore and adopt various standards and routines to achieve success. Use your comparisons with others as an encouragement to let your most authentic self shine brighter. Comparisons, when practiced positively, help develop self-empowerment. When comparing yourself with others, choose to focus on seeing your strengths instead of dwelling on your shortcomings. Also, remind yourself that you are enough, then set realistic aspirations and expectations. Doing these will help you show the world the most authentic version of yourself. We hope these insights help you see the silver lining in comparing yourself with others! Keep in mind that this action does not always have to be a bad thing. You just need to practice how to mindfully compare yourself in a way that benefits your own personal growth and development. Another important thing to remember: Never let your view of others affect how you see yourself. Take every lesson you can gather from others and even your past self, then apply those learnings to improve your future self. We’re rooting for you in your personal development journey!