Kicking comparison to the curb
 

The grass is always greener on the other side and unfortunately, many people go through life without ever acknowledging that the very grass on which they stand is the very grass someone else is so deeply infatuated by. It is disturbing to think that more and more children are becoming adults with negative body images. These children were never able to see their true reflection and instead turned to dangerous diet pills, plastic surgery and eating disorders in hopes of becoming “beautiful”. The devastating and most telling part of all is that more often than not, the “perfect beings” they are comparing themselves to are struggling with the very same issues and fail to see what the others are dying for.

It is no secret that celebrities, magazines, and the media have given society and the younger generations a skewed notion of what should be commended. However, I feel strongly that the entertainment industry is not the only one to blame. It is extremely rare to find a family, school or business that is willing to openly discuss the concept of beauty and how comparison destroys brilliance. People of all ages could benefit tremendously from speaking honestly about the dangers of comparison and the impact it has on a person both mentally and physically. If we take a moment to notice how often we compare ourselves to others, we will begin to realize that comparison causes nothing but conflict and unhappiness wherever it goes. Whether the comparison is thought or boldly stated, the pain it causes is always evident.

The need to compare, although quite human, is usually the most prevalent in individuals with low self-esteem. When we are comfortable in our skin and know who we are, our confidence gives us strength and the need to compare weakens significantly. Is confidence, however, enough to overcome comparison? Can someone who is self-assured and secure fall prey to its clutches?

Confidence is indeed a powerful weapon in combating the comparison beast. However, recognition can be far more effective. Confidence kicks the comparison a few feet away, leaving it relatively unharmed and ready to fight back with a vengeance. Recognition, on the other hand, is capable of destroying it on the spot. If we can learn to recognize when we are comparing and replace the negative talk with powerful, uplifting words, the results can be absolutely mind blowing.

Take a magazine and listen to your inner thoughts as you flip through the pages. Recognize the comparison thought and change it to a powerful, inspiring message. Embracing our unique qualities and the characteristics that make us who we are is a powerful step in the right direction. Once we realize that our physical shell is nothing but a genetic makeup of our parents, we can move into deeper waters and explore who we truly are.

Comparison, as William Blake so earnestly stated, is the destruction of beauty, so stop comparing and start enjoying! Embrace the things that make you you! Celebrate the things that make you smile! Observe your inner beauty and nourish it daily. Accept the undeniable truth that we are all different, unique individuals, and share your remarkable qualities with the world.