Are You Tired of Being Less Than? How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others!



Lifestyle | Mental Health



September 11, 2023

It’s an often repeated phrase “comparison is the thief of joy” because we know it to be true, but why is it so hard to stop the thief? There is no denying that the constant urge to measure your progress against someone else’s can lead to frustration, demotivation, and a dampened sense of accomplishment. So, how can we break free from this cycle and allow ourselves to revel in the daily benefits of exercise?

The era of social media has ushered in a wave of fitness influencers, showcasing their seemingly flawless routines and picture-perfect results. While these glimpses into others’ fitness worlds can sometimes serve as encouragement, they can also plant the seeds of comparison, making us question our own efforts and progress. A good start would be to limit how much exposure you have to social media pages that set unrealistic expectations or encourage you to do so.

As Coaches, we know that everyone’s fitness journey is unique – influenced by genetics, lifestyle, goals, and personal circumstances. The key to embracing your personal journey is as follows.

Embrace Your Starting Point Your journey is a personal one and comparing it to someone else’s is like comparing apples to oranges. Your body’s capabilities and limitations are distinct. Celebrate every small victory, whether it’s running an extra mile, lifting a slightly heavier weight, or simply maintaining a consistent routine. Surround yourself with people who do the same.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection Progress is a continuous journey, and even the smallest steps forward deserve recognition. Track your own improvements, whether it’s increased endurance, improved form, or enhanced flexibility. These markers of progress are deeply personal and contribute to your unique fitness narrative. Even athletes at the top of their game focus on how they can progress.

Celebrate Non-Physical Achievements Physical changes are just one aspect of the multifaceted benefits of exercise. Shift your attention to internal markers as well such as increased energy, better sleep, reduced stress, enhanced mood, and improved overall well-being. You could journal or track these on an App. These improvements are the fuel for progress in other areas. By celebrating these victories, you detach from the comparison game and enjoy the gains along the way.

Find Inspiration, Not Comparison Instead of feeling inadequate when witnessing someone else’s accomplishments, consider using their journey as a source of motivation. Let their dedication and commitment ignite your own passion for achieving your goals. Remember that every master was once an apprentice. Their journey was and is filled with effort, setbacks, and determination – just like yours.

In the end, the pursuit of joy in exercise boils down to nurturing a healthy relationship with your journey and cultivating a mindset that celebrates your progress, honours your uniqueness, and finds fulfillment in every moment of your fitness endeavours. By doing so, you reclaim the true essence of exercise – a journey of self-discovery, growth, and personal pride.

Fitness Revolution in Bassendean welcomes everybody but specialises in the over 40’s in a fun and safe environment. Learn more about our personal and group training.

Founder/Director Angela Gawthorne