Battling Comparison Mindset
How to Shut Down Comparison Mindset Before It Consumes You
Here’s the bottom line: There is always going to be someone out there doing the same thing as you. And yeah, that STINKS sometimes! Especially in the online space, it’s so easy for us to become consumed with what other business owners are doing, what their services are, what their branding looks like, how much they’re growing, how long their waitlist is, how far out they’re booking for, which business owners they’re collaborating with (I mean, the list goes on and on), and wondering, “What are they doing that I’m not?”
When that comparison mindset creeps in, there are a few things I’ve found that help me shut it down right away:
1. Remind yourself that everyone's journey is different.
One of the biggest things to keep in mind as an entrepreneur, especially in the online business space, is that there is no “right way”. This business you created has no real success blueprint (no matter what some coaches may say!) and it isn’t following someone else’s journey.
That’s because what works for one person isn’t always going to work for another!
If you believe in “what is meant to be will be”, here’s where that becomes a mantra. Often, the things that aren’t happening in our businesses at the moment are making room for something better. Maybe we’re learning the skills we need for that “something better” right now! Trust in your own path. It’s your path for a reason.
2. Remind yourself of your strengths.
What do you see in that person you’re comparing yourself to that you also see in yourself? What don’t you see in that person you’re comparing yourself to that you do see in yourself?
At the end of the day, someone is going to want to work with you for different reasons than they’re going to work with other people! What are those things? Name them, and write them down in case you need to come back to them. Celebrate them, and decide to let them shine more often!
3. Get the heck off of social media and reignite simple joy.
Unplug. Let yourself feel the feelings, and then let them pass. Just like everything else, it’s temporary!
Being stuck in a comparison mindset loop can be such a killer of creativity, joy, and all the good things. Some days it’s just best to cut it off at the source.
Then, spend some time with yourself. Do a little extra self care activity. If you feel up to it, do something (business-related or not) that ignites your passion and brings you joy. This always helps me return to my “magic” and the reason I do what I do. (Psst. This will also help you with #2.)
4. Phone a friend.
Other times, you may just need to lean on someone. I always think it’s best to lead with a simple, “Is it okay if I vent?” or “Are you in a good place to be a friend right now?” so that you can make sure your friend is in the headspace to be a friend. Then let it out!
Friends are sometimes the best at seeing your strengths and unique path, too. You may just need reassurance from someone else that day. That’s what friends are for! And sometimes the best friends are designer pals who get it and have gone through the exact same thing, too. They can remind you who you are and what makes you unique.
