How to Compare Yourself Without Losing Your Mind

“Comparison is toxic.”
“Comparison is the thief of joy.”
“Comparison will make you miserable.”

We’ve all heard this advice before. And in many cases, it’s true.

But what if comparison isn’t the problem? It’s how we compare.

Most people compare their inside to someone else’s outside—judging their own struggles against another person’s highlight reel.

Most people compare by looking at what’s different instead of what’s similar—using contrast to create distance, rather than insight.

This kind of comparison is unhealthy. But the right kind of comparison? It can drive you.

The World Says "Don't Compare"—But What If That's Wrong?