Whether it’s because I’m creative or just genuinely curious, I spend a lot of time reading blogs, pinning on Pinterest, and exploring different spaces on the Internet. I love searching for inspiration and finding hidden gems, but sometimes it is the cause for times of…unhappiness.
The above is so, so true. It’s true to the point where I say it to myself all the time.
I absolutely love my life, blog, and new shop (!!). But to say I’ve never compared any of these aspects to someone else would be a complete lie. I used favorite sites as sources of inspiration for my own design. And I looked to other shops for general how-tos while going through the process of setting up my own shop (side note: this was an entire unexpected process). Both of those scenarios are completely fine. I’m on board. I’m happy. But then I start to wonder if I will ever have x, y, or z. I start focusing on the numbers: followers, likes, and sales. And then I’m no longer feeling as happy, grateful, and excited as I know I really am.
Once I’ve reached this little danger zone, I step back. Completely. I refuel and refocus.
Here are my top five ways to stop comparing and start feeling like yourself again:
1. Put down your phone and step away from social media: I adore social media and so many sites, but the best thing to do is to step away from it all. Place all of your social media apps in a folder on the last page of your phone. This will help now, and it will deter you from looking as often because you have to work to find them.
2. DO something: For me, this means being active. Go for a walk, run, or bike ride. Go snowboarding, skiing (personal favorite), or swimming. Do yoga or pilates. Explore your town. Purchase supplies and make something. Doing something will occupy your mind and will likely make you forget why you were upset in the first place (at least for a few moments!).
3. Write a grateful list: Take a few moments and write down as many things as you can that make you feel grateful. Do not focus on things that make you unhappy or those you feel you’re not very good at doing. Stay completely positive. Your list will likely end up being quite lengthy. Trust me. :)
4. Focus on your core: Whenever I’m writing something or making something, I always take a moment to make sure it’s coming from my core. Do I really LOVE this, or do I not really care about it? How can I make it feel more like “me”? Dig deep. This is completely corny, but there’s only one you. Make yourself shine. I’m serious.
5. Realize who you are and where you are: Basically, don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. This is where I get into the most trouble. You can’t look at established people, brands, or whatever it is you’re comparing yourself to and think that you’ll never get there, especially if they are in the thick of things. Focusing on your strengths, being you, and starting something is most important.
Do you ever struggle with comparison? How do you kick the habit? Fill me in!
These are fantastic tips and something I try to do too. Comparison truly is the thief of joy and it robs me a little bit every day too. You can feel that doubt start to creep in in your mind and unless you stop it it’s all over. Such great tips and thank you for sharing Miss!
I think comparison must plague creatives just a little bit more. I agree, I can always feel it creeping in. I just have to starting thinking about something else right away because it has the power to take over. Thank you for reading, as always, Sarah!
“…don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.” So true!
It’s something I have to remember all the time.
WoW!! Heavy stuff…not your usual light and airy writings! Excellent thought process. Where does this all come from?? I wonder …hmmmmm