What steals your joy?

Last week I heard the saying, “comparison is the thief of joy”. I have heard this before, but this time it stuck with me.

As I reflected on the many blessings in my life, I also thought about what steals my joy. Undoubtedly it is when I compare myself to someone or something else.  

Research shows that humans have biased comparisons. For instance, comparing yourself to the fittest person you know when evaluating your own fitness level, or the best cook you know when you are evaluating your own cooking skills.

This is exacerbated by social media where you only see what people show you. Many of whom are rich and famous.

Do not fall into the trap of comparison, and instead choose to live with gratitude.  As the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus said, “Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.”

The only thing you should ever compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday.  So keep improving, keep getting better, and do not let comparison steal your joy.

Welcome to the Limitless Podcast with Nathan Jovanelly.  Thanks for tuning in.