Tiarnan O'Kane

By Tiarnan O’Kane

In the relentless pursuit of success, it is all too easy to become ensnared in the trap of comparison. We live in an age where the accomplishments and accolades of others are paraded before us with unprecedented visibility. Social media, professional networks, and the omnipresent culture of competition encourage us to measure our worth against the yardsticks of others. But this, I contend, is a dangerous misdirection—a distraction from the true path to personal and professional growth.

The Poison of Comparison

To compare yourself to others is to invite unnecessary frustration, envy, and discontent into your life. It is a futile endeavour, for the circumstances, talents, and opportunities that shape each individual are as varied as the people themselves. When you measure your progress against that of another, you are not engaging in a fair comparison; rather, you are setting yourself up for a losing battle, one that undermines your self-worth and stifles your potential.

Consider this: each person’s life is a unique tapestry woven from experiences, choices, and opportunities. To look at someone else’s achievements and measure your own against them is to ignore the intricate complexity of your own journey. You cannot know the full context of another’s success, just as they cannot fully comprehend the nuances of your struggles. And yet, in the modern world, we are bombarded with the illusion of effortless success, leading us to question our own progress and abilities.

The Power of Self-Improvement

The antidote to this pernicious habit is simple, yet profound: compare yourself not to others, but to who you were yesterday. This is the essence of true growth. It is a principle that fosters self-improvement and personal development by shifting the focus inward, where it belongs. By measuring your progress against your past self, you engage in a more meaningful and constructive form of comparison—one that acknowledges your unique path and celebrates incremental progress.

To compare yourself to who you were yesterday is to embark on a journey of continuous self-improvement. It is a commitment to becoming a better version of yourself, each day, through deliberate action and reflection. This approach demands honesty and humility, for it requires you to confront your shortcomings and take responsibility for your growth. But it is also deeply empowering, as it puts the locus of control firmly in your hands.

A Case for Personal Growth

Imagine you are a sales professional striving to reach new heights in your career. The temptation to compare your sales figures to those of your colleagues is strong, especially when their numbers are broadcast for all to see. But what do you gain from this comparison? If their figures are higher, you may feel inadequate; if yours are higher, you may feel superior. Neither outcome is conducive to true growth.

Instead, consider comparing your current performance to your own past achievements. Reflect on how your skills have developed over time, how you have honed your techniques, and how you have learned from your mistakes. This form of comparison is constructive—it allows you to identify areas for improvement and to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. It also keeps you focused on your own journey, rather than becoming entangled in the successes or failures of others.

This principle is not limited to the realm of sales or any specific profession. It applies universally, whether you are striving to improve your physical health, deepen your knowledge, or enhance your personal relationships. The key is to adopt a mindset of continuous self-improvement, where the only competition that matters is the one you have with your past self.

The Dangers of Envy

Envy, a natural byproduct of comparison with others, is a corrosive force. It erodes your sense of self-worth and distracts you from your true goals. When you allow envy to take root, you become fixated on what others have achieved, rather than on what you are capable of achieving. This not only hinders your progress but also fosters resentment and bitterness—emotions that serve no purpose other than to cloud your judgement and diminish your happiness.

By focusing on your own growth, you free yourself from the chains of envy. You begin to see your progress for what it is—a reflection of your effort, discipline, and perseverance. You learn to appreciate the journey, rather than constantly yearning for the destination. And in doing so, you cultivate a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment that is not contingent on the successes of others.

A Call to Action

I urge you to adopt this principle in your own life. Each day, strive to be better than you were the day before. Set goals that challenge you to grow, not in comparison to others, but in relation to your own potential. Celebrate your progress, however small, and use it as fuel to propel you forward.

Remember, the only comparison that truly matters is the one you make with your past self. This is the path to genuine personal and professional growth—a path that leads to a life of purpose, fulfilment, and resilience. Do not be swayed by the siren call of comparison with others. Instead, focus on your own journey, and let your progress be your guide.

In the words of Jordan Peterson, “Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who someone else is today.” Embrace this rule, and you will find that the road to self-improvement is one of the most rewarding journeys you can undertake.

By shifting the focus inward and committing to daily improvement, you unlock the potential for continuous growth, unhindered by the distractions of external comparison. This is not just a principle for success—it is a principle for life.