by Sandy Coughlin
The Reluctant Entertainer
Medford blogger, author, entertainer.
Comparing yourself to others is a shallow way to live. I know, because I’ve fallen into this trap many times. Bottom line: It really sucks to “look for affirmation in all the wrong places.”
I can tell right away when I’m comparing myself to someone else, which is silly because it’s such a joy-stealer when it comes to hospitality, because I automatically feel discontent.
Sometimes it’s on Pinterest or other blogs, magazines, or even just being with friends. At my age, I would like to think that I’ve overcome most of these feelings, but they still creep in.
Because someone always has something more fabulous or does something better than I do.
I don’t want to lose my sense of reality so I’ve learned to fight back! As soon as a feeling of comparison or discontentment sneaks up on me, I give thanks.
That’s right. I fight those feelings with true gratitude.
Giving thanks is a great tool to use when you struggle with “the wants.”
Feeling balanced and content requires a balanced diet of input. Pop on to Pinterest and pin a-way! Have fun! But don’t spend all day there. Organize your boards, get new ideas, but then get off and go live your life!
Oh, and don’t get motivation or inspiration mixed up. They are not the same at all.
Comparing ourselves to others makes us lose our vision of who we really are, how we were made, how we are here to bless others and live our lives. It’s a horrible feeling when you feel you can’t “measure up.”
A reality check, if you need one, would be to ask your husband, friend, partner, sister … someone in your life who really knows you, if they see you as a content person? (Ouch, yes, this can hurt!)
In what ways do you struggle with comparing yourself to others?
Be real, friends. Let’s get some good discussion going here!
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