It is hard for me to think of a time when there wasn’t social media. When we didn’t have to post every moment of our life. Or be constantly consumed by highlight reels and comparing our lives to others’.
I think it is safe to say we have all played the game of comparison. Believing that others have their lives more together, or wishing we had their hair, skin, body, or whatever the case may be. It can be so exhausting to the point where you wonder if you have anything good going for you.
My mom used to tell me, “Comparison is the thief of all happiness”. I never wanted to believe that, but looking back I realize that she was right.
Combatting Comparison
One realization that has helped me stop playing the comparison game is the simple truth that social media is not real life. The posts are just the highlights of someone’s life.
When you feel yourself slipping into this vicious comparison game, do your best to stop and reframe your mindset. You are beautiful and you are enough! Remind yourself that the people you see on social media are human too. They go through ups and downs and their lives are not perfect, even if their Instagram makes it appear so.
Another thing I have found that has helped me combat a comparison mindset is reading Scripture. While reading, I stumbled across a perfect verse to keep in mind:
Philippians 2:3 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”
We are so quick to compare our strengths and weaknesses to others. However, it is important to remember everyone is unique and different, that is what makes the world so beautiful. We are called to not be selfish of others’ strengths and to not ridicule their weaknesses, but to love and embrace them.
We are to walk in humility and not compare, because we are all imperfect people.