Comparing Your Life to Others.

“Comparison is the thief of joy.”

I think at some point we've all made the mistake of comparing our lives to others. We ask: "Why aren't things happening FOR ME?"

I've gone through this phase. After graduating college with my Bachelors Degree in Communications, I started applying for entry-level jobs in my field. I filled out hundreds of applications and heard NOTHING. It was the most discouraging and unexpected response (or lack thereof) EVER! I expected to have a job lined up, taking corporate world by storm and on the path of becoming the next Olivia Pope! I was immediately shot down with a barrage of "Thank You for Applying" emails turning me down.

I logged on to Facebook and saw classmates and peers announcing their jobs, new internships and promotions. I had failed. I resented the degree I worked so hard to obtain. The late nights, student loans and years of hard work meant nothing. I had to rethink my entire plan. I went back to the drawing board.

Then I remember seeing a quote, "You have to GROW where you are PLANTED." That's what I needed to do. That's what God wanted me to do. So that's what I did. I grew where I was, obtained licenses and new skills. I networked, stepped out of my comfort zone and most importantly, I prayed. Prayed for God's timing, not my own.

.....and here I am. Working in my field, doing something I LOVE that challenges me every day. Growing, thriving. (*But still struggling sometimes*). I wouldn't change anything about this journey.

TIPS TO HELP YOU STOP COMPARING YOURSELF

1. Do the work. Take control of your life! You have the power to change your circumstances.

2. Be happy for others. I certainly believe that the energy you put out is the energy you will get back. Good things don't come to those who are envious and critical.

3. Take a break from social media. Social media can be fun but at the end of the day, we are viewing carefully selected pieces of someone's life. If you find yourself feeling jealous or negative when you are on social media, take a break from it.

Don't be so hard on yourself. Things will work out....in due time. Everyone's journey is different.

"Don't compare yourself to others. There's no comparison between the sun and moon. They shine when it's their time."

#growth #personal #life