Imagine that you are deciding between McDonalds or Wendy’s for dinner. In order to decide, you have to compare the benefits and downfalls of each option. This is an example of a comparison that is not only harmless, but in some cases could be considered essential. Some more essential comparisons could be comparing two different colleges and what they offer for your interests, or comparing two different job offers to select the one that is best tailored for you. To be an essential comparison means it’s necessary to do, and that means that in certain situations, you have to compare in order to move forward.
Now, a comparison is often a healthy exercise for your mind, but there are also times where it can be less of a tool and more of a burden. It’s often easy to compare yourself to others in a harmful way, or to compare what you have to what another person has. This can lead to other issues in our lives.
But obviously, you knew that already. Comparison is a common concept that everyone faces frequently. You have faced both good and bad comparisons, as well as some you can’t avoid at all. It’s like a gamble. It can produce so much joy and positive change in your life, but it can also lead you down a dark path with unnecessary hatred towards yourself and others. You have to really comprehend your decision and make sure to not jump the gun when making while comparing to make the best call
Like I said before, one thing every person has in common is that we have all experienced good, bad, and necessary comparisons in our lives. It’s impossible to avoid all comparisons, good and bad, so what we have to do is be able to understand it and let it come as it is supposed to. The bottom line is, good comparison should come naturally and not be forced, and bad comparison comes naturally as well, and should not be ignored, but understood and reflected upon. I’m not here to tell you to tackle your comparison in any way. I just want you to understand that you’re not alone when you face the good, the bad, and the necessary comparison in your life.
Skyline Writing Center 