Compare and Despair - 5 Ways How to Deal With Comparison on Social Media.
Hi - My name is Andy Selway-Woolley (he/him) and I am a fully qualified Clinical Solution Focused Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist. I run HeadFirst Hypnotherapy, based in Upper Heyford (near Bicester), Oxfordshire.
Comparison on social media has become an almost inevitable part of our daily lives.
Scrolling through endless feeds showcasing the highlights of others' lives, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparing our own lives to these polished, often idealised portrayals.
This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as "compare and despair," can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depression.
However, there are strategies to mitigate these feelings and maintain a healthier relationship with social media.
Here are five ways to deal with comparison on social media:
1. Acknowledge the Highlight Reel
First and foremost, it's crucial to recognise that what people post on social media is usually a curated selection of their best moments.
These posts are the highlights of their lives, not the mundane, challenging, or unglamorous moments that everyone experiences.
By acknowledging that social media is a highlight reel rather than a complete depiction of someone's life, you can begin to contextualise what you see and reduce the impact of comparison.
2. Limit Social Media Usage
One of the most effective ways to combat social media-induced comparison is to limit your time spent on these platforms.
The less time you spend scrolling through social media, the less you're exposed to potential triggers of comparison.
Setting specific times for social media use and sticking to them can help you regain control over your social media habits and focus more on your real life.
3. Focus on Your Own Journey
It's easy to get caught up in someone else's life and forget about your own unique path and accomplishments.
To counteract this, focus on your own goals, achievements, and what brings you joy.
Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem, and remember that everyone's journey is different.
Comparing your chapter one to someone else's chapter twenty is not only unfair but also overlooks your own potential and achievements.
4. Use Social Media Intentionally
Be mindful of how you use social media. Follow accounts that inspire you, make you happy, or provide you with valuable information.
Unfollow or mute accounts that consistently make you feel inadequate or jealous.
By curating your feed, you can create a more positive and inspiring social media environment that uplifts rather than undermines your self-esteem.
5. Practice Gratitude and Self-Compassion
Finally, practicing gratitude can significantly alter your perspective on your life and achievements.
Regularly reflecting on what you're grateful for in your life can help shift the focus away from what you perceive you're lacking.
Additionally, practicing self-compassion by speaking to yourself kindly and understanding your own struggles can mitigate the harshness of comparison.
Remember, being kind to yourself is a crucial step in overcoming the "compare and despair" cycle.
Conclusion
Comparison on social media is a challenge many of us face, but it doesn't have to dictate our self-worth or happiness.
By acknowledging the curated nature of social media, limiting our usage, focusing on our own journey, using social media intentionally, and practicing gratitude and self-compassion, we can foster a healthier relationship with these platforms.
Remember, the only fair comparison is the one you make with yourself—how far you've come, the obstacles you've overcome, and the growth you've experienced.
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The first step to setting yourself free and living the life you want.
My name is Andy Selway-Woolley (he/him) and I am a fully qualified Clinical Solution Focused Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist. I run HeadFirst Hypnotherapy®, based in Upper Heyford (near Bicester), Oxfordshire.
I assist people in regaining control of their lives by retraining their brains to overcome limiting thought patterns, master their emotions, and cultivate resilient behaviors for a brighter and more positive future.. I know… It’s awesome!
a nutshell, I ‘get you out of your own way’. Because, let’s face it, a lot of us are.
Solution Focused Hypnotherapy taps into the power of your subconscious mind so you can move forward towards the life you’ve always wanted to live. It’s a quick, practical way to address thought patterns, emotions and behaviours that are holding you back in life.
I’m also a Level 3 Qualified Personal Trainer, after working in a gym environment in my early career.
I’m a registered and accredited member of the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), Association for Solution Focused Hypnotherapy (AfSFH) and National Council for Hypnotherapy (NCH).
Hypnotherapy sessions can be done either in my garden therapy room in Upper Heyford, Oxfordshire (Near Bicester). Ideally situated, it also serves individuals in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, and Warwickshire and I also work online nationwide via Zoom.