Is it Good or Bad?
Comparison is something which we are familiar with and have experienced at some point in our lives.
This behaviour feels inherited, passed down from generation to generation. The habit begins in infancy. People around us make all sorts of judgments. We observe and listen to them.
Then we start doing it in small ways. In a slow yet oblivious manner, it develops into a natural trait, difficult to suppress.
People enjoy drawing parallels until it comes to them.
When faced with it, the reactions vary from fear to fluster, from pressure to ponder.
But this tendency is like a tool. Its utility depends on how it is dealt with.
Comparisons can invoke your lost eagerness.
They add the fuel of motivation to reignite the fire within you that has been extinguished by repeated failures.
They encourage you to stand up and make an effort again. This reminds you of your purpose.
When coming from experienced people, these observations are extremely valuable. They give us an insight into our limitations. And this helps us improve.
Sometimes, they can show us the way to harness our untapped potential.
However, every coin has two sides.
The act of pointing out similarities and differences turns worse when used for constant judgment. People start assessing their abilities solely by measuring their progress against others. Others’ achievements become a standard for them.
They feel anxious about not being able to meet the same expectations. They assume their capabilities aren’t sufficient and that their efforts are all a waste, resulting in envy and insecurity.
To be equivalent to someone we are being compared to, we needn’t follow the path they have. Different roads can lead to the same destination.
The most meaningful evaluation is not with others but with yourself. Development is not entirely defined by achievements.
If you are a better version of yesterday’s self, you are growing.
The world is full of comparisons, full of those who compare, but deficient in people who see it as a positive force. They set benchmarks as their goals and raise the bar. They look up to legends to become one.
A push to help themselves reach the pinnacle.
And when this happens, such remarks don’t remain the way they are. What were once sarcastic comments become compliments.
There’s only one factor that determines the effect of it, and that is you. For comparisons themselves don’t matter, but the mindset with which they are viewed makes all the difference.