Chapter 1: The Impact of Comparison

“Comparison is an act of violence against the self.” — Lyanla Vanzant

In our modern society, the tendency to compare ourselves to others is pervasive and often unavoidable. Whether at work or in casual conversations, we frequently find ourselves measuring our lives against those of others.

This can be particularly frustrating when we perceive others as leading better lives. While some may view this comparison as a form of motivation, for many, it can lead to detrimental effects on mental health and creativity.

The act of comparison can begin with seemingly trivial matters, such as a friend's vacation photos, a colleague's promotion, or a classmate's stellar grades. Without realizing it, we begin to gauge our worth against theirs, which can subtly undermine our creative potential.

Readers might wonder how this habit impacts creative minds. Creativity thrives on individuality and freedom. It encourages exploration, innovative thinking, and self-expression.

When we focus on comparing ourselves to others, we inadvertently restrict our thinking and create invisible limits. This habit leads us to question our own thoughts and abilities, becoming overly concerned with how our ideas will be perceived, which stifles our imaginative expression.

Constant comparison breeds feelings of envy, sadness, and frustration. When we believe we fall short compared to others, it can contribute to feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety, often stemming from low self-esteem.

Each of us has a unique journey filled with personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs. When we observe someone else's success, we often overlook the hardships they faced to reach that point, focusing only on their seemingly happy moments.

Comparison does more than hinder creativity; it also diminishes confidence, heightens anxiety, and obstructs the path to becoming our best selves. Instead of celebrating our uniqueness, we may find ourselves imitating others, which is a drain on our time and energy.

To combat this habit, it’s essential to concentrate on your personal journey rather than what others are achieving. Embrace your creativity and invest time in self-discovery.

Reducing your social media consumption can be a significant step in addressing this issue. If you find that social media heightens your tendency to compare, engage in activities that foster your creativity and redirect your focus away from comparisons.

Set personal goals and track your own progress instead of measuring yourself against others. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, as this will help shift your focus inward.

Practicing gratitude can also enhance your mental well-being by reducing the urge to compare. Recognizing your blessings fosters happiness and contentment. Seeking fulfillment by measuring against others rarely leads to satisfaction; it often brings undue stress.

Surround yourself with individuals who uplift you rather than those who constantly compare you to others. Being in positive environments is crucial when working to overcome the need for comparison. Seek out those who encourage you to pursue your passions and build your confidence.

Engaging in creative activities can also help foster your artistic side. Whether it’s cooking, painting, writing, or trying new hobbies, these pursuits can enhance your creativity.

While it’s natural for humans to compare themselves to others, the danger arises when this behavior begins to dominate our thoughts. Recognizing the harmful effects of comparison can help us focus on our individuality and cultivate our creativity.

Chapter 2: Finding Your Own Path

This video titled "My COMPLETE UBC Medical School application | GPA, MCAT, Extracurriculars (Canadian Student)" provides insights into the application process and highlights the importance of personal achievements over comparisons. By focusing on your unique journey, you can find the path that resonates with you.