It’s not a secret that social media is a major cause of depression nowadays. According to “Journal of Depression and Anxiety,” people using social media are almost three times more likely to develop depression than people who use it less often. While comparing ourselves to others is in our nature, it’s important to know how to stop comparing ourselves to others in a negative way.

1. Understand that you are shown the result, not the journey

The truth is that most people show only the highlights of their lives on social media. Usually you don’t get to see their everyday work, and everything they have to do to maintain that quality of life. Also, you never know what they had to sacrifice for that success. Maybe for them it doesn’t seem to be a sacrifice, but for you, it would be one. 

For example, you love spending time with your kids, and spending less time with them would be a sacrifice; while someone doesn’t want to have kids at all, so they have a lot of time to pursue their goals and achieve success. Would it work for you? Probably not. So, always keep in mind that you see only the result, not the journey.

2. Become fulfilled

The best way to stop comparing yourself to others is to become fulfilled yourself. Become a person who doesn’t need to compare themselves to others. However, this is neither a short nor an easy journey. You should have enough passion and what’s more important, dedication and persistence.

3. Set goals, make an action plan

In case you haven’t started your journey to success yet: set goals first. Be focused, don’t set too many goals. Prioritize your goals and put all of your energy into pursuing one goal at a time. 

After setting a goal, make an action plan. Keep in mind that both the plan and you should be flexible. If something doesn’t go as planned, review all options you have at hand and choose the best one possible. Sometimes the Universe shows you ways you could have never imagined or thought of before. Sometimes the worst situation ever turns out to be a turning point leading you to success much faster. 

Don’t overestimate your power. As a human being, you have little control over other people and situations. Just make sure you choose the best possible option thrown at you.

“You have to set goals that are almost out of reach. If you set a goal that is attainable without much work or thought, you are stuck with something below your true talent and potential.” – Steve Garvey

4. Put your business first & social media aside

If you’re only beginning your journey to success, comparing yourself to people who are in the middle of the journey or have already achieved great success is just wrong. You will never get to your destination if someone else’s success distracts you from doing your job and discourages you. Spend as little time as possible on social media platforms and take care of your own business. Put your business first, always keeping in mind your end goal to motivate you.

5. You’re going through life at your own pace

Everyone has their own path and pace. If you have already started moving towards your goal, and you know that you won’t give up no matter what, sooner or later you will achieve it anyway. The only difference between you and the people who already have what you desire is the amount of time spent working on a particular goal. Keep growing, keep improving yourself, and you will finally succeed. 

Don’t give up on a goal even if it takes you longer than you expected, because you can always alter your plan. Stay flexible, and greet whatever the Universe gives you with gratitude. 

Even if an obstacle comes into your path, make sure you consider it a blessing in disguise. Obstacles are opportunities to look at something from a different angle and learn something new. After all, there is no certain way to achieve success, so stay flexible, adjust, and you’ll get there anyway.

6. Get rid of limiting beliefs

Get rid of your limiting beliefs ASAP. Don’t get discouraged by your limiting beliefs that tell you “you are not worth it” or “it’s impossible.” Whenever you hear something like that from your relatives, friends, or your own mind, question those beliefs. Are they true or are they deceiving you? Your mind may be deceiving you because it is against doing something extra and leaving its comfort zone. Fight your limiting beliefs! 

7. Stop caring about other people’s opinions

Stop caring about what people may think about you. Do your thing, be persistent, and stay focused. People don’t think about you often anyway. It’s better to try and fail than to regret that you’ve never even tried.

“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” – Dr. Seuss

8. Treat yourself well

Be your own best friend and don’t be too strict with yourself. Give yourself enough time to relax. Practice digital detoxing often or delete your social media accounts. You don’t have to prove anything to anyone or to impress other people. You also don’t have to show them your progress. You don’t have to tell them what’s been happening in your life.

Focus on your own life and your happiness. Praise yourself and thank yourself for the work you’ve done. Be grateful for what you have achieved, and be proud of yourself. Don’t give up even if you fail. 

How do you focus on yourself and create your own best life? Do you have any tips or advice for our readers? If so, comment below!