You Came to Be You

Last week, we focused on honoring each other’s authenticity, celebrating the unique qualities that make each of us who we are. This week, let’s go deeper—into something that threatens our authenticity daily: comparison.

In today’s world, it’s easy to fall into what I call the “InstaGLAM” and “FAKEbook” traps. These platforms are filled with highlight reels, carefully curated snapshots that only show the best of someone’s life. But comparing our lives to these highlight reels leads us down a path that doesn’t make sense. After all, we didn’t come to be them. We came to be us.

When we compare ourselves to others, whether it makes us feel better or worse, we’re benchmarking our authenticity against someone else’s curated reality. Emotional intelligence teaches us that this isn’t helpful. Instead of sparking inspiration, it can fuel insecurities, jealousy, and fear—all rooted in the back part of our brain.

The Emotional Intelligence Swap: Comparison to Admiration

Here’s the good news: there’s a powerful shift we can make. Instead of comparing, let’s move toward admiration. Admiring someone else’s qualities or achievements ignites possibility within ourselves. It moves us into the front part of our brain that tells us we’re enough and that if they can do it, we can too.

Practical Takeaways

1. Notice When You’re Comparing

   Next time you catch yourself in comparison mode, pause and recognize it. Awareness is the first step. This shift from autopilot helps you regain control and recognize that you’re feeding insecurity rather than inspiration.

   
   

2. Ask Yourself: “What Do I Admire?”

   Turn the comparison into admiration by identifying what you respect or find impressive about the person or their journey. Admiration opens you up to possibility rather than fear or jealousy. This simple question can transform how you feel and, most importantly, how you grow.

3. Use Admiration as Fuel for Your Journey

   Recognize that admiration can be motivating. If you see qualities or achievements you aspire to, ask yourself how you can work toward similar goals in your unique way. This keeps you aligned with your authenticity while allowing you to draw inspiration from others.

   
   

Remember, if you’re focused on becoming someone else, you lose sight of becoming the best version of yourself. You came to be you.

Here’s to honoring the path uniquely yours, fueled by admiration and grounded in authenticity.

Keep shining – be who YOU came to be,

Xoxo-Tara