As a high school graduation gift, my mom compiled inspirational letters and quotes from her most trusted family and friends into a book… Words from Wise Women (and one really smart guy)… that smart guy, my dad. Eighteen-year-old Renée was, obviously, extremely grateful and cherished the words that these women had shared with her, but didn’t quite realize how helpful and valuable they would become. Some days I’ve really needed these extra motivational messages.
One that has stood out to me every time I flip through them… “Comparison is the thief of joy.”
We live in an age where highlight reels are projected all over the internet. Scrolling through Instagram, Snapchat, or Facebook can be fun and captivating… or it can turn you into the green eyed monster. Seeing the fun times that others are having causes you to question everything about your life. “Why can’t my life be like that?” becomes the thought running through your mind as you view the highlights from everyone else’s life.
That comparison, vastly enhanced by social media, takes away any chance for pure joy. I actually had to delete Snapchat for a while because of what it was doing to so many of my friendships. Is everyone hanging out without me? was no longer just the title of lovley book, it became a question that seeped into my heart and filled my mind with self-doubt and jealousy. Not good.
Comparison leaves you constantly wishing for something else. I wish I was more like ___. I wish that I had ___. It blinds you from seeing the very best part about yourself: the simple fact that you are you. Every quirk, every “imperfection” makes you a wonderful, unique human being unlike any other.
You can compare yourself to others all day long. And yes, they may be awesome, but guess what. So are you. Be confident in who you are. Find motivation from others, but never for a second doubt how ridiculously great it is for you to be you.
Big high five (or raise the roof… still have not figured out this emoji) to that.
confetti kindness 
Published by