There is a famous saying, “Comparison is the thief of joy”. And when it comes to comparing oneself to others, it can bring about a host of negative emotions and thoughts. In today's society, where we are constantly bombarded with others' achievements and successes through social media, it is no wonder that many people struggle with low self-esteem and a lack of confidence. However, what if we shifted the focus from comparing ourselves to others, to instead, comparing ourselves to our own selves?

The concept of comparing oneself to their own self may seem counterintuitive at first, but it holds great potential for self-growth and personal progress. In this article, we will explore the positive benefits of focusing on themselves vs. themselves.

When we compare ourselves to others, we often focus on our shortcomings and what we lack compared to others. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. However, when we shift the focus to ourselves, we can see how far we have come and the progress we have made. This can boost our self-confidence and give us a sense of accomplishment, motivating us to strive for even more growth and improvement.

Moreover, when we compare ourselves to others, we can fall into the trap of constantly trying to keep up with them. We may feel the need to constantly prove ourselves and seek validation from others. On the other hand, when we compare ourselves to our own selves, we can set our own standards and goals. This allows for a more personal and meaningful growth, rather than just trying to meet societal expectations.

Another positive benefit of comparing themselves to themselves is that it fosters self-acceptance and self-love. When we stop comparing ourselves to others, we can begin to appreciate and embrace our unique qualities and strengths. This leads to a healthier and more positive self-image, which can have a positive impact on our mental well-being.

Moreover, focusing on personal growth and progress also allows for self-reflection. We can take a step back and objectively assess our own journey, and identify areas for improvement. This self-awareness helps us to constantly strive for self-improvement and become the best version of ourselves.

Furthermore, comparing themselves to themselves promotes a growth mindset. In contrast to a fixed mindset, where we believe our abilities and traits are fixed and cannot be changed, a growth mindset acknowledges that our potential is limitless. By focusing on ourselves and our own progress, we can cultivate a growth mindset and believe that with hard work and dedication, we can achieve anything.

In conclusion, while it is natural to compare ourselves to others, it can have detrimental effects on our self-esteem and well-being. Instead, shifting the focus to comparing ourselves to our own selves can have numerous positive benefits. It allows for self-acceptance, self-love, and personal growth, fostering a healthy and positive mindset. So, let us embrace our individual journeys and strive to be the best version of ourselves, instead of constantly comparing ourselves to others. As Oprah Winfrey once said, “The only person you should ever compare yourself to is the one you used to be.”