COMPARISON is when individuals see the similarities and differences between themselves and others. This often occurs as people seek to determine which of their endeavors is superior.
Comparing oneself to others has benefits and consequences. On a positive note, it can inspire a person to strive for success like others. This type of motivation resembles positive jealousy— desiring something that others have, which can lead to greater effort and personal growth.
It also provides an opportunity to learn from the experiences of others. It is akin to gaining knowledge from other people’s learning experiences, which can result in building valuable connections.
In 1954, psychologist Leon Festinger put forth a theory regarding social comparison. He suggested that people are naturally inclined to assess themselves frequently to other people.
But constantly comparing oneself to others may have an adverse impact, such as experiencing setbacks and developing negative emotions.
Comparison is often referred to as the “thief of joy” because excessively comparing oneself, possessions, and experiences to those of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and discontent.
The negative connotation associated with comparison arises when individuals compare themselves to those they perceive as less fortunate. There is a tendency for people to belittle the experiences of others to feel better about themselves.
Effects of social media comparison
With the rise of social media, Gen Zs have begun to discover and view life from a different perspective. However, this also increases their tendency to compare themselves to the accomplishments shared by influencers, public figures, idols, and other netizens in public.
By doing so, these young individuals often feel pressured and experience fear of missing out or FOMO. This perception is accompanied by anxiety and unnecessary pressure to always keep up with trends seen online.
Gen Zs absorb a substantial amount of content nowadays, which influences their perception and aspirations in life leading to low self-esteem.
However, this experience is not limited to the content seen online but also extends to the challenges encountered as they grow older.
‘Buti pa si ano…’ mindset
The “buti pa si ano” mindset among Filipinos has been prevalent since childhood days. This mentality has persisted, from being compared to other kids in the neighborhood to normalizing it in today’s society as a supposed effective way to improve oneself.
But this only leads to questioning one’s worth and abilities. In a room full of beautiful people, individuals would probably compare themselves to others instead of appreciating their beauty.
Several netizens would even leave comments in online posts, wishing they had felt better about themselves.
Focus on your happiness
However, social media is gradually shifting toward a more positive approach, with several netizens promoting contentment as the key to genuine joy.
Indeed, seeing others achieve their dreams while still pursuing one’s own goals might cause some self-doubt, but their lives shouldn’t depend on what they see online. They should focus on what they aspire to be, regardless of what they see on the internet and hear from others.
The best way to stop comparing oneself is for them to start working on their happiness.
Remember, the happiest and most successful people here on earth are too busy to maintain their joy and success to concern themselves with the lives of others.
So, focus on personal happiness because this is what matters most.
