Compassion over Comparison

Sometimes I catch myself looking at other people’s accomplishments and lifestyles and all I hear is “want want want.” I want that thing that someone else has. And sometimes I truly do, I want to travel, I want to spend time with my friends, I want to eat that cupcake right now. But why? Is it because I’m coveting something that I don’t have? Is it from a sense of lack? Or can it be flipped on its head and turned into inspiration?

We live in a world of instant gratification. A little longing of the heart can be good because it can teach us patience and trust. Working towards a goal just feels GOOD.

Think about a time in your life when you were in pain or when you felt lack. Over time that feeling dissipates and you are able to move through it and grow from that experience. Everything is temporary, and although that can be difficult to come to terms with, it can also be liberating.
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No matter what anyone tells you, we are constantly figuring it out. Every. Single. Day. Improvise? Plot twist? Fake it til you make it? You bet, we all do it. It’s how we thrive.

So the next time you notice yourself comparing your body, life, you name it, to someone else’s, see if you can break it down. What is it that you want? Is it a feeling? An object? Or do you really want to be Oprah when you grow up? Because if Oprah is what you want, then print out a picture of her and put her on your wall right now. What else do you love about Oprah? Is it her style, her money, her wisdom? Okay, why do you want her style? What will Oprah’s style give you? How did she get it? DO THOSE THINGS. Talk to Oprah-like folks and see how they got there.

Don’t be afraid of competition. When we act out of fear, we act from lack. Let’s be real: that stuff doesn’t serve anyone. Instead, allow yourself to soften, be gentle with yourself.

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XO
AG

@yogaliese
Annaliese Godderz

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