How to stop comparing yourself and focus on your own journey.
Five Top Tips to Help You Make Progress.
Starting on a wellness journey is a deeply personal experience, one that needs introspection, self-compassion, and a positive mindset. It's important to remember that this journey is uniquely yours and will be different to anyone around you who is travelling a similar path.
Your challenges and difficulties will be different. How you handle these challenges will be different. And you’ll find that you’ll sail through some situations with ease and grace while others will bring you to your knees. And it might not be the tough stuff that feels the worst. Sometimes it can be the little things that tip the scales.
Embrace it with an open heart and a curious mind, ready to discover what works best for you and your wellbeing. Be open to the lessons. Because there always is one, even in the most joyful or saddest moments.
And remember; there is nobody else out there like you. Your experiences, conditioning, and societal norms have shaped you as much as your natural traits and upbringing. You are unique and so is your journey.
Below I’ve compiled five tips to help you focus on your own path without the burden of comparing yourself to anyone else. I hope this helps you find a little bit of peace when the comparison demon stirs.
1. Set Realistic and Meaningful Goals
Begin by setting realistic and meaningful goals that resonate with your values and aspirations. This will provide you with a clear direction and purpose. The key really is ensuring your goals are in alignment with what is important to you. There is no point trying to be like someone else. Or follow a path that doesn’t sit right with you.
To implement this effectively, start by identifying what truly matters to you. Consider using tools such as vision boards or goal-setting journals to visualise what’s important to you. Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable steps, and set achievable deadlines to keep yourself accountable. Regularly review and adjust your goals as needed to stay aligned with your evolving wellness journey.
Remember to be in honest communication with your Self. If something isn’t working or a goal feels unattainable that’s okay. You can adjust it. Accept that not all things are easy or that you have estimated how long they take accurately. Especially if something is completely new to you.
Progress isn’t linear. It's okay to take the scenic route or wander a little off track. Enjoy it and find the beautiful lessons along the way.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude Daily (or as often as you can)
Incorporate mindfulness and gratitude into your daily routine. These habits can help you stay present and appreciate your progress, reducing the tendency to compare yourself to others. Doing a daily practice of mindful movement has changed my life. It has given me a sense of accomplishment, made my body feel better, and is slowly giving me the ability to LET GO OF PERFECTION.
For mindfulness, consider practicing meditation, mindful movement. Start with a few minutes each day, focusing on your breath and letting go of any distractions. You can also engage in mindfully in the day to day activities, too. Walking, eating, or even doing household chores, paying full attention to the sensations and experiences in the present moment, can transform the mundane to something much more enjoyable
To express gratitude, keep a gratitude journal where you regularly write down things you are thankful for. Or say it out loud. Thank you! Say it now. It is hard to be sad or feel the taint of comparison when we are being truly grateful for the little things. This could be as simple as appreciating a sunny day, a kind gesture from a friend, or a personal achievement. Make it a habit to reflect on these positive aspects, which can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have.
By incorporating these practices into your life, you can cultivate a greater sense of peace and contentment on your wellness journey.
3. Surround Yourself with Supportive People
Build a network of supportive people to hang out with who uplift and encourage you. Having a strong support system can make a significant difference in keeping a positive mindset and staying focused on your wellness journey.
For instance, friends who listen without judgment can provide a safe space for you to express your thoughts and feelings, helping you to process and navigate your experiences. Family members who encourage your goals and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, can boost your confidence and motivation.
Additionally, mentors or coaches who offer guidance and constructive feedback can help you stay on track and achieve your aspirations. Find out more about coaching with me here.
By surrounding yourself with people who genuinely care about your wellbeing and success, you create a nurturing environment for you to grow and thrive and generally prosper in all the best possible ways.
4. Limit Exposure to Comparison Triggers
Reduce your exposure to social media and other platforms that may trigger feelings of inadequacy or comparison. Consider setting boundaries around your social media usage, such as limiting your time on these platforms to a specific duration each day or unfollowing accounts that make you feel negative about yourself.
Instead, invest time in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, such as hobbies, spending time in nature, or practicing creative arts. Remember, art isn’t about perfection. Art is about expression. Channelling our emotions, thoughts, musings and experiences into the physical, visible, tangible.
Additionally, limit the time spent with individuals who have a negative influence on your mental health and wellbeing. Surround yourself with positive influences and set clear boundaries to protect your energy and maintain a healthy mindset. Engage with communities that support your goals and values, and seek out uplifting and encouraging relationships.
5. Maintain a Reflective Journal
Keep a journal to track your progress and reflect on your experiences. Writing about your journey can provide valuable insights and a sense of accomplishment as you see how far you've come.
Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. It’s incredible to read back a journal entry months or years later to see your progress and reflect upon how the things that worried you then were concerns you overcame.
For example, you can start a daily journal where you note down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Reflect on what went well during the day, what challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Another approach is to maintain a bullet journal where you can include lists, goals, and trackers for habits or activities. This can help you visualise your progress and stay organised.
You could also try a gratitude journal, where you list things you are thankful for each day. This practice can shift your focus towards the positive aspects of your life and enhance your overall well-being. Alternatively, consider a reflective journal where you delve deeper into your thoughts and emotions, exploring your personal growth and the lessons you've learned along the way.
By incorporating journalling into your routine, you can create a personal record of your wellness journey, providing motivation and encouragement as you continue to grow and evolve.
By following these tips and prioritising self-care, you can cultivate a healthier and more fulfilling life, free from the burden of comparison.
If you’re interested in working with me I offer coaching, psychotherapy, and in person somatic movement workshops.
To find out more about how I work, check out my therapeutic coaching pages. Or you can drop me an email at claire@harmonyhealingservices.co.uk
