“Try not to get lost in comparing yourself to others. 
Discover your gifts and let them shine!”
-Jennie Finch

In my profession of personal development, it is common to pair up with other coaches to present workshops and seminars.  A few weeks ago I got the opportunity to do just that.  This was the first time that I would share the stage with someone else.  I was a bit nervous because I felt that I was going to be compared to my very amazing partner. He is a very dynamic, energetic and a passionate presenter.  He is a very hands-on, and spontaneous. Half of the time you are wondering where he is taking you.  I, on the other hand, have a teaching background, my structure is very step by step, I have objectives, worksheets, “think pair shares,” etc.  As, I reflected on this experience it finally dawns on me that I was comparing myself to my partner and it was taking away from my light.  This made me uncomfortable because the truth is there is only one me!  I was worried that I would be seen as less dynamic or less energetic, but now I realized that what I got to offer was my uniqueness.  You know what I been told my uniqueness is?  My passion about my topic.  I have been told that when I speak about accomplishing dreams and living in passion, I come ALIVE! Yes, my partner was amazing, but I felt I met my objective and did a fabulous job!

Today I want to remind you about your awesomeness your uniqueness!  I want to tell you that there is only one you and you never have to compete with anybody.  Many of us feel that we are never good enough that someone else is better, and that is wrong!  You know why it’s wrong?   It’s wrong because there is nobody in this world with your life experiences, talents or abilities.  Here are five reasons you should never compare yourself to others.
You are too amazing and unique to be compared.
You are one in a billion!  There is no one like you!  Your life experiences, talents and abilities only you have.  When you measure yourself to someone else you are comparing apples to oranges.  There is value in what you have to offer to your family, community or business.  Seek to learn from role models but only desire to be a greater version of you!
You lose some of your light when you compare yourself to others.
You never have anything to gain when you contrast yourself to others.  On the contrary it takes from your light.  As you compare yourself to others you lose sight of your awesome abilities.  You lose sight of your greatness.  Stay focused only on you!
Comparison leads to resentment.
When you compare yourself or your life to others you become bitter toward yourself and others.  To live in resentment with others takes away from focusing on the wonderful things in your life.  Look around you, and see how amazing you are!  Focus on the wonderful things in your life!
When you compare yourself to others it takes away from your joy!
Some people sabotage their joy by comparing their life to others. Understand that you are capable of acquiring all your desires, but it will happen in due time. Don’t take away from your present joy, and be patient.
Comparisons are unfair.
Remember, your abilities and talents are dependent of your dedication, determination and talents.  When you size up yourself to others you may desire something that they have worked on for many years.  They too, were beginners at one time.  Don’t ever compare your beginning to someone else’s ending that is unfair!
If you must compare yourself to someone, compare yourself to whom you used to be.  Strive to grow and become a better human being every day.  Be kind to yourself, practice gratitude and appreciate your uniqueness more!  Until next time, Believe. Change. Become!
NancyJ