"Plus nous nous définissons en relation avec les personnes qui nous entourent plus nous sommes perdus"

When we base our identity on how we compare to those around us, we lose touch with who we really are. Imagine always measuring your worth against your friends, colleagues, or even celebrities. Instead of understanding your unique qualities, you get caught up in a cycle of comparison. This can lead to a sense of confusion and dissatisfaction, because you’re not being true to yourself – you’re just trying to fit into someone else’s mold.

Historically, this idea has popped up in various forms. Think about the age of social media. We’re constantly bombarded with images and updates about other people’s lives. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to these curated versions of reality, and in doing so, we lose sight of our own paths and values. This quote reminds us to look inward rather than outward when defining who we are.

Consider a real-life example: Sarah. Sarah is a graphic designer who always felt good about her work – until she started following a bunch of other designers on Instagram. Every day, she saw their polished, professional designs and their seemingly perfect lives. She began to feel like her work wasn’t good enough. She spent hours tweaking her designs, trying to match the style of those she admired. But the more she did this, the less satisfied she became. She lost her unique touch and even started to dread designing altogether.

One day, she decided to take a break from social media. She focused on what she loved about graphic design and started sketching for herself, not for the likes. Gradually, she rediscovered her passion and unique style. Her work began to shine again, and she felt more fulfilled and confident.

So how do you apply this wisdom? First, take a step back from the comparison game. Spend time alone without distractions, and think about what truly matters to you. What are your passions? What are your values? Write them down if it helps. Try to set personal goals that align with these values rather than with what others are doing. It’s also helpful to limit your exposure to situations that trigger comparison – like Sarah did with social media.

Here’s a relatable scenario: Imagine you’re at a high school reunion. Everyone’s talking about their achievements. One friend boasts about their high-flying job, another about their travels, and another about their perfect family. You start to feel inadequate. But then you remember that your journey is unique. You think about the things you’re proud of – maybe it’s your close-knit family, your dedication to a hobby, or the resilience you’ve shown in tough times. When you define your worth based on your own values, you feel grounded and content, even amidst the noise.

In the end, it's about trusting that who you are is enough. It’s about celebrating your own path, regardless of where others are. Sure, it’s easier said than done, but with practice, you’ll find yourself less tangled in the web of comparison and more at peace with your unique journey. So next time you catch yourself measuring up to someone else, pause and remind yourself of what makes you, you. After all, no one else can do that quite like you can.