What Comparisons Can Teach Us

Comparison often gets a bad reputation, and for good reason. At its worst, it can leave us feeling inadequate, discouraged, or behind.

But I've noticed that comparison isn't always the enemy.

Sometimes comparison sparks hope.

Sometimes seeing someone heal, change careers, find love, set boundaries, or create a life that feels meaningful reminds us that change is possible.

Interestingly, psychology research suggests that upward comparison isn't inherently harmful. In some circumstances, seeing others succeed can inspire hope and motivation, particularly when we recognize similarities between ourselves and the people we admire.

Perhaps envy isn't always a sign that something is wrong with us.

Perhaps it's information.

A clue about what we long for.
A reminder of what we value.
Evidence that hope still exists.

Maybe the question isn't, "Why don't I have what they have?"

Maybe it's, "What is this showing me about the life I want to create?"