Comparison Is NOT the Thief of Joy
Summary
- When I mention someone is 2 seconds faster than me in a race, it's simply a fact, not a negative statement about myself.
- Believing "comparison is the thief of joy" is misleading; comparison serves as a helpful benchmark to gauge progress.
- It's not the act of comparison that's harmful, but rather the judgment we attach to it – that judgment is what truly steals joy.
- Acknowledge the difference between where you are and where you want to be without negative self-judgment.
Video
How To Take Action
A good way of doing things is to use comparison as a tool, not a weapon. Start by finding someone who is where you want to be. Notice the difference between you and them. This gap is your road map, not a reason to feel bad.
Let's make a list of the things they do that you don't. Maybe they work out every day, maybe they read books on their business, or perhaps they're just really good at managing time. Whatever it is, write it down. Instead of judging yourself for not being there yet, think, "What can I learn from this?"
Next, pick just one thing from that list. What's the easiest thing you can start doing right now? Maybe it's setting your alarm 30 minutes earlier to read, or perhaps it's taking a short online course to improve a skill. Do that one thing until it feels normal. Then pick the next thing on the list.
Remember, the point is not to beat yourself up. It's about getting better, step by step. Every time you want to say, "I'm not good enough," stop, and instead say, "I'm getting better."
Most importantly, be honest with yourself about your progress. If you're getting closer to your goal, celebrate! If you're not, ask yourself what needs to change. No judgment – just action. Keep checking your list and yourself. Are you doing the things? Are you moving closer?
So, use comparison to find your path, pick one step at a time, and keep going without putting yourself down. That's how you'll get to where you want to be – with joy intact.
Quotes
"Comparison is the thief of joy"
– Alex Hormozi
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"Comparison is a measuring stick"
– Alex Hormozi
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"It's just how you see the Delta between where you are and where you want to be"
– Alex Hormozi
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"The thief of joy is the Judgment that we make on that comparison"
– Alex Hormozi
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"The second part of the statement is where you get in trouble, not the comparison itself"
– Alex Hormozi
