Life After Quitting Comparison: Finding Inner Serenity
As a member of the human family, I hope this finds you in peace and good health. Today, I am addressing your question with the insights from my experience. Is quitting the habit of comparing yourself to others truly beneficial? Let's explore this through the lens of personal growth, self-awareness, and inner peace.
Understanding the Cultural Influence
In many corners of the cultural landscape, there is an abundance of messaging that promises fulfillment. Such messages often gravitate towards promoting products or behaviors that align with some external agenda, be it personal, business, or institutional. The cycle of comparison can be deeply ingrained, starting from childhood. Messages like, 'Be like Tommy - he shares his toys!' or 'Dont be like Brett - hes selfish and mean!' can become internalized, influencing how we perceive ourselves and others.
The World Inside vs. The World Outside
Your life is a world in and of itself. When you immerse yourself in this world, you are free from the shadows of comparison. The world of beingness is a place of simplicity and ease. There is no other "world" to compare with, only what is happening, happening because it is happening. It is effortless and unburdened by the weight of others' perceptions.
Breaking Free from Comparison: A Process
Breaking free from comparison is not easy and requires a process of self-realization. It is a journey of self-discovery and unlearning the patterns we have been trained to follow since childhood. Our upbringing often instills the idea that we must achieve certain milestones or compare ourselves to others to feel complete. Phrases like, 'Gloria really knows how to dress! She is gorgeous and yummy!' or the judgmental "Maude" can shape our self-perception.
When you compare yourself to others, you mentally step out of yourself to assess yourself. This act of self-assessment makes you an object, allowing you to compare yourself with others. You become fat or tall, smart or ugly, or a reflection of the color or age you observe in others. However, this mental journey comes at a cost. It distracts from the reality of life, which is warm, intimate, flowing, lively, and spontaneous.
A Joke for Perspective
To illustrate this point, consider this joke: Two musicians form a band, one on saxophone and the other on bass. During a pre-show sound check, the saxophonist steps back and listens. A flush of dissatisfaction washes over his face as he yells, "Its no good, Bob; its all bass!" If the saxophonist were to turn around and listen, he would realize the truth: he and Bob are integral parts of a complete sound. Just as no one is complete on their own, no one is complete by comparing themselves to others.
Conclusion: Embracing Inner Serenity
The journey of quitting comparison is not about conforming to external standards. It is about embracing the serenity of the present moment and the unique essence of who you are. Life becomes easier as you focus on your own light and journey, rather than the perceived light of others. Remember, you are the world, and being is simply existing, happening, and growing.