Less Than

We compare ourselves to others ... we're human ... It's natural.

When I compare my work to writers I admire, I'm looking for useful insights, motivation, and inspiration to improve.

And, when the comparison is positive, it boosts my self-esteem.

But sometimes that comparison bruises my confidence and leaves me feeling inadequate ... unworthy ... not good enough.

When I start sliding down that slippery path, I remind myself that it's better to compare myself to who I was yesterday ... not to who someone else is today.

Easier said than done.

But usually I can shake it off by reminding myself that I can improve and grow by setting realistic goals. And that overvaluing what I don't have and undervaluing what I do have isn't healthy, and will short-circuit my forward progress.

We all periodically find ourselves in that lonely place of feeling less than ... try to make it a short visit.