Navigating Mental Health in the Age of Constant Comparison

Modern advancements in technology are undeniable, and come with many incredible new abilities. In this modern epoch, connection has never been easier, with each and every one of us having unlimited contact to billions of other people. This advancement has certainly been revolutionary, but it also comes with adverse side effects, sucking many people into spirals of self doubt and anxiety. The new digital age has altered the way many of us perceive ourselves. We view others lives, their perfect being, and can't help but to compare. Social media has allowed us to perfectly curate our lives, framing only the best, and never emphasizing downfalls and mistakes. This supposed pristine existence is certainly unreachable, yet it is difficult not to compare, to wonder why your own life isn't filled with such grandeur. I hope to share with you all some unfortunate side effects associated with constant comparison, and some ways to help you exit this cycle of self destruction.

First, I want to talk a little about the origins of comparing oneself to others. It is important to note that comparing ourselves to others is not a human instinct, but is instead instilled into us via many societal norms. From an early age, comparison in reinforced within us; it is commonplace to be compared, constantly ranked against your peers. Perhaps your parents questioned why your grades weren't on par with someone else's, or you were ranked behind teammates in a sport you loved. These experiences are paramount in our development, and this comparison can lay a negative foundation, effecting many into their teenage years and even further into adulthood, and leading to a negative perception of self worth.

Now, we can discuss why this comparison is harmful, and can hinder many aspects of life. It can drain you emotionally, as many studies point to a correlation between consistent comparison and heightened levels of clinical depression and anxiety disorders. It can also effect your productivity. Measuring yourself up against others can lead to regular procrastination and inaction. By putting your mental capacity towards comparison, you can inadvertently harm your own gain, whether in school or at work. Relationships may also suffer from comparison. Feelings of jealousy and inadequacy can seep into personal bonds, and often transfer over. Clouded by these feelings, you may even become jealous of close friends and family, taking out these negative feelings on those you cherish. Finally, and arguably the most important pitfall, is reduced feelings of self worth. Chronic comparison often leads to a lack of self-esteem. As you compare your life to others you may deem "better," negative self talk and inner criticism often follow. This can effect one's confidence, leading to doubt of personal capabilities and worth.

These adverse effects of comparison are further fueled by social media. Now more than ever, we are able to access other peoples lives. Millions of videos showing a pristine existence, free of blemish and failure. These perfectly curated lives can effect your perception of your own. These highlight reels are by no means an accurate picture of lives lived, but it is still rather easy to compare, even subconsciously. Numerous studies have linked time spent on social media to increases in anxiety and depression.

Luckily, there are methods to decrease comparison, and prioritize your self worth. Techniques like self awareness can help. Next time you find yourself comparing, stop and breathe. Ask yourself why? What are you hoping to by comparing yourself to other, acknowledge these emotions and consider why you feel the need to compare. Another helpful method is to limit exposure. Although this seems straightforward, it can often be difficult. Methods like a digital detox, or unfollowing accounts you find yourself comparing to can make a significant difference. You can also simply monitor screen time, reminding yourself to prioritize real world connections. Another helpful process is to focus on your goals. By setting realistic goals, and working hard to achieve them, you can shift external validation to internal growth. Make sure to celebrate milestones, no matter how small they may seem. The more you focus on competing with your past self instead of others, the more positive growth you will achieve. Finally, seek community. It is hard to go at it alone, and so make sure to find someone to talk to. Whether it be a close friend, partner, or mental health professional, external support is always helpful on one's journey to recovery.

I know it can be difficult to quit comparing. Now more than ever it is easy to want for more, want for the "perfect" life you see on social media. But these comparisons are harmful, not only to you but potentiality to those around you. I hope that each and every one of you who resonates with this will implement the methods I described. Just remember, you are never alone in your struggle. Find those who will support you, and lean on them in your journey to better yourself. I believe in every one of you!