Comparing ourselves to others. WE all do it, and while it may be human nature to do so, and may have a purpose, it can and often does, lead us down a very bad path. It's been said that comparison is the thief of joy. Pretty harsh.
Studies have indicated that comparing ourselves to others tends to generate feelings of either inferiority or of superiority, neither of which creates an emotionally healthy image of life. So what is one to do?
“If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.”
This quote from the poem Desiderata describes an "Authentic Lifestyle", which involves being true to oneself, along with being dignified and self-assertive without being disrespectful to others.
Seems simple enough in theory, but a pretty tall order when all is said and done. As we mature, hopefully we come to realize the wisdom that comes in not comparing ourselves to others. Even better when we no longer feel a need to do so.
Interesting to note that the word desiderata is actually Latin for "happily ever after". It really doesn't get any simpler than that.
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