How do I stop comparing myself to others when it feels like everyone else has their life figured out and I’m just stuck?

Oh, comparison. It’s one of those soft, sneakily envious, and almost lethal whispers that slowly sneak into one’s mind, gradually affecting one’s self-esteem. Not a single one of us is immune to comparison; not a single one of us has never felt stuck. It’s a universal experience and completely natural. However, there are definitely ways to overcome the cycle of comparison and focus once again on your growth, as an individual.


Firstly, I would like to remind you that you are your own unique, wonderful person, who has so much to offer, a lot of which you may not recognise at all. We are often the hardest on ourselves. Recognise that how you perceive others may be an illusion — an individual who seems to have figured out all aspects of their life may feel just as lost as you, in private.


While comparison may evoke feelings of stagnation, being curious about why you’re feeling stuck and the steps you can take to overcome it can inspire you to innovate. Ask yourself what you can learn from the situation you’re in and where you see yourself in a year, or five. Furthermore, try to reflect on where you were a year ago, and reminisce about the ways you have progressed over the months. You will find that neither is everyone else constantly in motion, nor have you been continually stuck.


In addition to this, I would also like to recommend maintaining a journal, in which you document even the smallest of daily victories. This will eventually help you build self-awareness and remind you that you are blossoming, too. Trust yourself, and you will eventually figure it all out, as and when you need to. Finally, it is always imperative to share your feelings with any confidant, a friend, parent, family member, counsellor, or any other adult. Talking it out always helps one feel more at peace.


Each one of us is on a different path, with different timings, priorities, and challenges. Though comparisons are inevitable, they are not necessarily defining or eternal. Compare yourself to who you were the previous day along with looking inward rather than outward, and you will find that the tiniest steps forward count as movement.


Teens! Got questions, advice to seek, or topics to discuss? 💬 Send your queries to 📩 info@electroniccitycredence.in and let your voice be heard!