INSIGHT: Bad Comparison

by | Aug 9, 2013 | Coaching Advice, Insights & Inspiration

Do you ever find yourself comparing yourself with others?

No matter how much more lucky “they” are, they’re probably not as rich, happy or successful as you think they are.

Most of us know the downsides of comparing ourselves with others, but we do it anyway. We look at the people who got the promotions we wanted and can’t help but wonder “why them?!” We read about the successful execs making business news and wish we could be that sure of ourselves, that financially stable and that lauded by our peers. We imagine their perfect careers and see mostly the bunny trails and long-way-arounds in our own professional journey.

Every one of them feels the same way a lot more than you think.

So what? Why shouldn’t we compare ourselves to others? How else can we know what’s possible and what to strive for? In truth, a certain amount of comparison is helpful. It keeps us competitive and sharp. But also in truth, no one has the unique mix of background, talent and passion you have. You’re either the apple or the orange, but not both.

Here’s how to tell when you’re going too far in comparing yourself with others: When you forget how to be excited about what you do best, focus on the things that make you love your work or be confident on your path, it’s time to pull back and get a little perspective.

Know there are others looking at you and wondering how you got where you are and what your secret to success is. Not only is the glass either half empty or half full, you’re half way up or half way down.

You choose.

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Dana Theus

Dana Theus

Dana Theus is an executive coach specializing in helping you activate your highest potential to succeed and to shine. With her support emerging and established leaders, especially women, take powerful, high-road shortcuts to developing their authentic leadership style and discovering new levels of confidence and impact. Dana has worked for Fortune 50 companies, entrepreneurial tech startups, government and military agencies and non-profits and she has taught graduate-level courses for several Universities. learn more

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