A lot of really interesting thoughts here. I liked the infinite versus finite games and the rundown of philosophy. This article felt like "if you're interested in this topic and you don't have time to do all the research, here, I've done some research for you..." I really liked that.
But I would love to hear more about your story and how you put this into practice. Just my 2¢... The idea of what we're trying to learn from comparing is fascinating. Have you learned anything interesting from comparing yourself?
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Robin. You’re right, the “why” behind comparison is where it gets really interesting. For me, it’s often revealed less about the other person and more about my own hidden insecurities or untapped ambitions. Almost like comparison is a mirror that reflects the parts of myself I’ve been ignoring. Might be worth unpacking in a future piece.
That sounds very interesting. I compare myself a lot to other people out of envy "They are succeeding by doing something that they are good at. I wish I had something I was good at that I could succeed with, too." At the moment, this comes from having started 7 failed businesses in the last 6 years... But I think I'm supposed to be learning something about not finding all of my value in work. So my comparison shows me that I'm chasing conventional success because what other people model looks better than following my own inner health.
So true, especially the part about how your own dopamine hit gets flattened just by seeing someone else’s numbers. I’ve felt that exact shift happen in real time. I’ll be thrilled with a post one minute, then scroll my feed and suddenly it feels small. It’s irrational, and annoying, but weirdly comforting to know it’s also biochemical. Also, so true about the philosophers! Camus and Nietzsche have both kicked me back into clarity more times than I can count. The “you have your way, I have mine” line is basically my motto these days. Thanks for writing this.
I know exactly what you mean. That instant dopamine deflation is wild. One scroll and the joy evaporates.😂🥲 But yes, realizing it’s biochemical (not some personal failure) does take the sting out. That quote you mentioned is one of those quiet anchors that keeps you from spiraling. Thank you so much for reading and resonating so deeply.
I love that you encourage philosophy because that also helped me see the world in a better perspective which also helped me move forward with my goals.
And regarding comparison, there's what we used to remember at work "friendly competition", it's good to have that healthy nudge to be better, but not to the point where you put yourself down.
Lovely work Becham! And I'm happy you got that growth from your previous post. Keep it up!💯😊
You’re right. Philosophy really does shift the lens. It teaches you to zoom out, see patterns, and stop taking every little thought so personally. And yes to “friendly competition”, when it lifts you instead of weighs you down, it can be powerful.
I appreciate your kind words and the energy you brought to this!🥳
Very thoroughly researched and interesting.. Philosophy and knowledge of self will bring you back to yourself. I have explored the mind for 35 years and it still amazes me how comparison seems to be bulit into the human system--give it up and you will find freedom. But it's almost impossible. An infinite game worth pursuing.
Beautifully said Monica. Comparison really is hardwired. It sneaks in even when we think we’ve outgrown it.😂 But the more we catch it in the act, the less power it holds.
Sounds like your 35-year exploration has uncovered some serious wisdom. I’d love to hear more about what’s surprised you most on that path.
I found A Course in Miracles and it helped me with anxiety and depression. It's a spiritual approach to finding your own heart and life purpose. And discovering your natural creative power. I've been teaching for years and still find deeper meaning with each read.
That’s beautiful. It’s always inspiring to hear how someone found their way back to purpose and peace through something so personal. Thank you so much for sharing that. It adds another layer to this conversation.
A lot of really interesting thoughts here. I liked the infinite versus finite games and the rundown of philosophy. This article felt like "if you're interested in this topic and you don't have time to do all the research, here, I've done some research for you..." I really liked that.
But I would love to hear more about your story and how you put this into practice. Just my 2¢... The idea of what we're trying to learn from comparing is fascinating. Have you learned anything interesting from comparing yourself?
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, Robin. You’re right, the “why” behind comparison is where it gets really interesting. For me, it’s often revealed less about the other person and more about my own hidden insecurities or untapped ambitions. Almost like comparison is a mirror that reflects the parts of myself I’ve been ignoring. Might be worth unpacking in a future piece.
That sounds very interesting. I compare myself a lot to other people out of envy "They are succeeding by doing something that they are good at. I wish I had something I was good at that I could succeed with, too." At the moment, this comes from having started 7 failed businesses in the last 6 years... But I think I'm supposed to be learning something about not finding all of my value in work. So my comparison shows me that I'm chasing conventional success because what other people model looks better than following my own inner health.
Great takes and advice!
We already chatted about philosophy and how liberating the realization of a missinh life's "purpose" can be.
Steer clear of Schopenhauer, though! 😂
Thank you so much Andreas!
Schopenhauer definitely isn’t the guy you turn to when you’re looking for a pick-me-up.😂😂
Comparison is the bane of our existence...or at least self-imposed occasional misery.
Love the comparison of finite vs infinite games!
So true, especially the part about how your own dopamine hit gets flattened just by seeing someone else’s numbers. I’ve felt that exact shift happen in real time. I’ll be thrilled with a post one minute, then scroll my feed and suddenly it feels small. It’s irrational, and annoying, but weirdly comforting to know it’s also biochemical. Also, so true about the philosophers! Camus and Nietzsche have both kicked me back into clarity more times than I can count. The “you have your way, I have mine” line is basically my motto these days. Thanks for writing this.
I know exactly what you mean. That instant dopamine deflation is wild. One scroll and the joy evaporates.😂🥲 But yes, realizing it’s biochemical (not some personal failure) does take the sting out. That quote you mentioned is one of those quiet anchors that keeps you from spiraling. Thank you so much for reading and resonating so deeply.
I love that you encourage philosophy because that also helped me see the world in a better perspective which also helped me move forward with my goals.
And regarding comparison, there's what we used to remember at work "friendly competition", it's good to have that healthy nudge to be better, but not to the point where you put yourself down.
Lovely work Becham! And I'm happy you got that growth from your previous post. Keep it up!💯😊
Thank you so much Astrid! 😁
You’re right. Philosophy really does shift the lens. It teaches you to zoom out, see patterns, and stop taking every little thought so personally. And yes to “friendly competition”, when it lifts you instead of weighs you down, it can be powerful.
I appreciate your kind words and the energy you brought to this!🥳
Very thoroughly researched and interesting.. Philosophy and knowledge of self will bring you back to yourself. I have explored the mind for 35 years and it still amazes me how comparison seems to be bulit into the human system--give it up and you will find freedom. But it's almost impossible. An infinite game worth pursuing.
Beautifully said Monica. Comparison really is hardwired. It sneaks in even when we think we’ve outgrown it.😂 But the more we catch it in the act, the less power it holds.
Sounds like your 35-year exploration has uncovered some serious wisdom. I’d love to hear more about what’s surprised you most on that path.
I found A Course in Miracles and it helped me with anxiety and depression. It's a spiritual approach to finding your own heart and life purpose. And discovering your natural creative power. I've been teaching for years and still find deeper meaning with each read.
That’s beautiful. It’s always inspiring to hear how someone found their way back to purpose and peace through something so personal. Thank you so much for sharing that. It adds another layer to this conversation.
Excellent piece!
Thank you so much Joel. I appreciate it!