Comparison...
This is most definitely a hard one to avoid. Comparing ourselves to others is something we?ve naturally done from such a young age. Think back to primary school when you would compare who?s got the cooler toys, who?s got the best Pokémon card collection, who wore the better dress at the party etc. Whether this comparison takes place via internal thoughts or external debates, we?ve all been there before. I can say with 110% confidence that at some point in life, everybody has compared themselves to others.
This comparison-centric behaviour is no different when it comes to weight loss and fitness... In fact, it?s probably more of an issue in this industry. For example, you may be thinking to yourself: "why are they losing weight quicker than me", "why can't I run that fast", "they have reached their goal weight and I've only lost 1.5kg... I'll never get there" etc.
I?ve done it. You?ve done it. We?ve all done it.
The Key Problem With 'Weight Loss Comparisons'
The problem with these kinds of comparisons is that they can put us in a negative headspace and actually have the potential to adversely affect our long term weight loss and fitness results.
Comparison can easily lead to limiting self-talk, and these unhelpful thoughts can deter us from staying on track with what we initially set out to achieve.
Everyone?s bodies are different. Different strategies will affect each person in different ways, and some people will naturally get results quicker than others; but that?s okay! We must work on learning to love and respect ourselves and our own progress. We must learn to stay in our own lanes and focus on what really matters in OUR lives.
How much weight Sally lost, or how much muscle Freddy put on last month should not affect your own fitness journey in any way, shape or form. I know it?s often hard to keep these thoughts out of our heads, but the Sallys and Freds of the world can f**k right off...
Focus on YOU!
3 Things You Can Do To Stop Comparing Yourselves To Others
- Focus on your own wins. We often compare our progress and wins to someone else who seemingly has "better" results. You don't actually know what they are battling behind closed doors. Focus on yourself and celebrate every single win (big and small).
- Define happiness and success for your own individual life and journey. There is no one size fits all when it comes to weight loss. Define what your individual goals are, and then constantly remind yourself of them. They are yours. No one else's.
- Surround yourself with positive people. Find a community of people that uplift you, rather than make you feel sad. We can be our own worst critics, but if you surround yourself with positive and uplifting people, they can help lift you back up on your down days.
Final Thoughts - Next Steps
As I've already said, limiting comparison is easier said than done. But you just have to keep working on it and using the tactics that I mentioned above. Remember, no one is you, and that is your power!
If you enjoyed this post, then be sure to check out my post that breaks down 5 things that you can do to calm your mind and de-stress. If you constantly find yourself comparing yourself to others and getting upset, then this post is a must-read.