Psychologists Reveal the 6 People You Should NEVER Compare Yourself To
Riya Kumari | Dec 10, 2024, 12:22 IST
Comparing yourself to others is like scrolling through Instagram at 3 a.m. while eating chips straight from the bag: deeply unsatisfying and mildly self-destructive. You tell yourself it’s just curiosity, but next thing you know, you’re spiraling. Sound familiar? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. But here’s the thing—comparison is the thief of joy, and some people are just off-limits when it comes to measuring your life. Let’s break down the six types of people you absolutely should not—under any circumstances—compare yourself to. Trust me, your sanity depends on it.
The classic human pastime—comparing ourselves to others. It’s like we’ve got this internal scoreboard ticking away, measuring every little thing we do against someone else’s highlight reel. But here’s the thing: it’s not really about them, is it? Oh no, it’s about us. Somewhere deep down, we’re desperately trying to prove to ourselves that we’re "enough." You’re just doing what we all do—seeking validation from someone who doesn’t even know you exist. You know what’s fun though? Realizing that comparing yourself to others is like trying to measure your worth by someone else’s ruler. It’s not your fault—it’s just that our brains are hardwired for comparison.
You know the type: flawless beach waves, “woke up like this” selfies, and vacations that look like a travel brochure. Here’s the catch—they’ve got filters, lighting, and possibly a social media manager (not to mention an arsenal of Facetune). You’re comparing your Tuesday-in-sweatpants life to their highlight reel. Spoiler alert: you’ll never win that game. So, unless you’re planning to airbrush your entire existence, stop scrolling and start appreciating your unfiltered, glorious reality.
2. Your Overachieving College Friend
Ah, the friend who aced every exam and started their own NGO at 19. Now they’re casually climbing Everest while writing a novel and posting about their latest TED Talk. Here’s a wild idea: maybe their timeline isn’t yours? Just because they’ve got a LinkedIn profile that reads like a movie script doesn’t mean you’re behind. Focus on your own story—it’s way more binge-worthy than you think.
3. The Rich Kid Who Did Nothing to Earn It
They’re living their best life in designer clothes while you’re Googling “creative ways to eat ramen.” And sure, their dad’s yacht is nice, but let’s be real—they didn’t build it. Comparing yourself to someone born into privilege is like blaming yourself for not winning a race you weren’t even running. You’ve got grit, and grit builds greatness. Keep hustling.
4. Your Ex’s New Partner
Why do we do this to ourselves? Your ex is now dating someone who’s a little too perfect—better skin, cooler style, a smile that could light up Times Square. But let’s be honest, their “perfection” doesn’t erase your worth. You’re a whole catch, and anyway, your ex is probably just repeating their same old patterns. So, why waste energy on this comparison when you could be focusing on your glow-up?
5. The Fitness Influencer Who “Loves” Kale
Their abs are basically the eighth wonder of the world, and they’re over here telling you kale chips are “life.” Meanwhile, you’re just trying to survive another Monday without falling asleep at your desk. But here’s the thing: their job is to look like that. You’ve got a life to live—and if it involves pizza at midnight, so be it. Love your body, even if it doesn’t come with a built-in six-pack.
6. The “Effortlessly” Talented Prodigy
They’re fluent in five languages, play Beethoven on the piano, and paint like they’re the reincarnation of Van Gogh—all before their morning coffee. But remember: natural talent is just one ingredient in the recipe of success. Your journey is yours, and it’s not a competition. Celebrate your progress instead of stressing over someone else’s magic.
Stop tying your worth to the things that fade—looks, talents, or money. At the end of the day, who are you when those things aren't in the picture? Your worth isn’t built on external stuff; it’s in the way you show up for yourself and others. Think about it: when you nurture your soul, practice kindness, and take time for self-care, you’re investing in the real you. The person who deserves love, respect, and all the good things life has to offer. No one can take away your inner value—it’s yours to keep, always. And remember, it’s the quiet moments of self-love, the way you care for those around you, that build a life of meaning that no one can ever overshadow.
1. The Instagram Perfect Stranger
Picture perfect
You know the type: flawless beach waves, “woke up like this” selfies, and vacations that look like a travel brochure. Here’s the catch—they’ve got filters, lighting, and possibly a social media manager (not to mention an arsenal of Facetune). You’re comparing your Tuesday-in-sweatpants life to their highlight reel. Spoiler alert: you’ll never win that game. So, unless you’re planning to airbrush your entire existence, stop scrolling and start appreciating your unfiltered, glorious reality.
2. Your Overachieving College Friend
Speech
Ah, the friend who aced every exam and started their own NGO at 19. Now they’re casually climbing Everest while writing a novel and posting about their latest TED Talk. Here’s a wild idea: maybe their timeline isn’t yours? Just because they’ve got a LinkedIn profile that reads like a movie script doesn’t mean you’re behind. Focus on your own story—it’s way more binge-worthy than you think.
3. The Rich Kid Who Did Nothing to Earn It
Rich woman
They’re living their best life in designer clothes while you’re Googling “creative ways to eat ramen.” And sure, their dad’s yacht is nice, but let’s be real—they didn’t build it. Comparing yourself to someone born into privilege is like blaming yourself for not winning a race you weren’t even running. You’ve got grit, and grit builds greatness. Keep hustling.
4. Your Ex’s New Partner
Trip
Why do we do this to ourselves? Your ex is now dating someone who’s a little too perfect—better skin, cooler style, a smile that could light up Times Square. But let’s be honest, their “perfection” doesn’t erase your worth. You’re a whole catch, and anyway, your ex is probably just repeating their same old patterns. So, why waste energy on this comparison when you could be focusing on your glow-up?
5. The Fitness Influencer Who “Loves” Kale
Player
Their abs are basically the eighth wonder of the world, and they’re over here telling you kale chips are “life.” Meanwhile, you’re just trying to survive another Monday without falling asleep at your desk. But here’s the thing: their job is to look like that. You’ve got a life to live—and if it involves pizza at midnight, so be it. Love your body, even if it doesn’t come with a built-in six-pack.
6. The “Effortlessly” Talented Prodigy
Singer
They’re fluent in five languages, play Beethoven on the piano, and paint like they’re the reincarnation of Van Gogh—all before their morning coffee. But remember: natural talent is just one ingredient in the recipe of success. Your journey is yours, and it’s not a competition. Celebrate your progress instead of stressing over someone else’s magic.
Stop tying your worth to the things that fade—looks, talents, or money. At the end of the day, who are you when those things aren't in the picture? Your worth isn’t built on external stuff; it’s in the way you show up for yourself and others. Think about it: when you nurture your soul, practice kindness, and take time for self-care, you’re investing in the real you. The person who deserves love, respect, and all the good things life has to offer. No one can take away your inner value—it’s yours to keep, always. And remember, it’s the quiet moments of self-love, the way you care for those around you, that build a life of meaning that no one can ever overshadow.