"Comparison is the thief of joy"
By Kelly Nicholas, Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Movement, Bachelor of Health Science in Paramedicine
I heard this quote on a podcast whilst doing the housework the other day and I loved it! Such simple, yet powerful words by Theodore Roosevelt that resonate with so many of us!
Comparison encompasses many facets of our lives including social, emotional, physical and material thought processes. How often do we look at others wishing we had their 'boobs' or their 'booty' or their skin type? We all do it - I am definitely guilty of this! My biggest challenge is the pretty significant stretch marks on my tummy that I received post having children. I see other women wearing bikinis (hello Bec Judd - ummmmmmmm how do you have twins and look like that? See - I'm comparing!). Elise and I are the same, we shudder at the thought of wearing a bikini because there is skin for days on our tummies! I can laugh about it now but it took some time to embrace these 'badges of honor'. Comparing myself to others only lead to negative thought processes and a poor sense of self, when in actual fact, I have a lot to be grateful for! I bet anyone reading this would have some part of their bodies that they have compared to others? Am I right? The fitness industry can be rife with unrealistic body types and make expectations difficult to achieve. We love to embrace all body types and fitness levels and provide an inclusive and diverse group of people. We love that you guys give anything a go and hope that you feel uniquely individual and embrace the beautiful bodies you have been given!
Now another aspects that I notice with comparisons are personalities. These intrinsic traits are genetically instilled in us and whilst we may evolve as we age, we are all fundamentally different. Again how often do we wish we had someone else's confidence or motivation? I actually applaud people that embrace their bodies, their personalities and make themselves vulnerable by sharing things publicly. Being content within yourself has such a positive ripple affect on your self worth. So think about the original meaning of this quote -now I'm not a religious person at all but this was its original intent: "Many people complain to God that they did not get many things in life, but they do not think that they should thank God for whatever they have got." (source http://www.braintrainingtools.org/skills/comparison-is-the-thief-of-joy/)
What a great way to look at the things that we have rather than the things that we don't have? There is plenty to be grateful for - own your bodies, own your personalities and don't compare yourself to others. You are uniquely you! :)