Mindset Moments
We’ve always compared ourselves to others, it’s part of how humans learn.
But social media has turned this instinct into a 24/7 broadcast of curated highlight reels.
Suddenly, you’re not just comparing yourself to your peers, but to strangers’ filtered vacations, promotions and the oh so “perfect” lives.
The problem? You’re measuring your behind-the-scenes footage against someone else’s showreel. It fuels envy, discouragement and decision paralysis and can trick you into chasing goals that were never yours to begin with.
Let's look at a few practical tactics to break free:
Practical tips for breaking the comparison trap
Identify your comparison triggers:
Notice the situations or platforms that leave you feeling less-than. Is it LinkedIn after a big announcement wave? Instagram when friends are travelling? Limit exposure or set boundaries around those spaces.
Swap comparison for curiosity:
When you feel envy, ask: “What about their situation is sparking this?” Often, it points to a value or goal you care about. You can use this insight to shape your own path instead of competing in theirs.Curate your inputs:
What you see shapes how you feel. Follow people who inspire and uplift you, show a human level of reality in their lives...not those who leave you drained. Think of your feed as your mental diet...curate it intentionally.
Someone else’s success doesn’t diminish yours.
The only timeline you need to measure against is your own and the only real competition worth having is with your past self.
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” – Theodore Roosevelt
If you’re tired of feeling like you’re always behind where everyone else is, let’s map out a career and life that’s on your terms. Book your FREE intro call today.
Hi I'm Zoë Schofield
Your dedicated Career, Life & Personal Development Coach.
Clarity + Courage for Crossroad Moments
I help people navigate career crossroads, life transitions and everything in between... through curiosity, clarity, confidence and perhaps a little humour too along the way!
I've been where you are; successful on paper but unsure what's next, perhaps pulled in too many directions and craving something more aligned. My coaching is practical, human and gently challenging. No pressure to have it all figured out, just real support to help you reconnect with what matters and take action from there.
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