Whatever You Can Do, I Can Do Better

"Jealousy is the fear of comparison" - Max Frisch

There have been plenty of times in my past where I've compared myself to other people. Most of the time, the people I compare myself to are strangers. Other times, it would be people who I truly loved.

When someone can do something, I must do it better. I applied this mindset to anything and everything. 

I compare grades, athleticism, social popularity, shoes, money, car, and the list goes on and on and on.

At the end of each day, I become more and more insecure. Social media only makes it worse. It gives people the opportunity to create and manipulate their public image. People are always living life to the fullest. They eat only at the finest restaurants. They're always out shopping for new clothes and shoes. They travel and explore all edges of the Earth. The smiles on their faces are priceless.

While I am just living my boring life.

What I avoided during these times was reality. I failed to come to the realization that there will always be someone in this world that is more athletic, intelligent, and popular than me.

I tried to appreciate the ‘not so finer things in life.’ Because the ‘not so finer things in life’ may bring a world of joy to other people around the country.

I had to drill this realization into my mind.

Instead of comparing myself to other people, I compared myself to myself. How have I grown throughout my lifetime? How did I improve myself?

This comparison was eye opening. I worked harder, not to surpass the person next to me, but myself.

This helped me focus on goals that are actually obtainable. Goals that would build me up rather than break me down.

Thanks for reading.

-Jason