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AND. It’s one of the smallest words in the English language. And it’s one of the most powerful. It connects opposites, builds bridges, and brings ideas and people together. When individuals embrace AND, they are more authentic, creative, and free. When organizations and communities embrace AND, they are more innovative, inclusive, and loving. Life in the AND is a podcast about how we all can embrace AND create more authenticity, inclusion, and love in our lives, businesses, and the world. Dr. Erin Baker, a transformational coach, and social psychologist shares some of the most powerful ANDs she embraces in her life, and has inspiring conversations with leaders, entrepreneurs, authors, and creatives to unearth their answer to the question, “What AND do YOU stand for?”

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  2. 008 | Comparison is a Thief of Joy AND a Source of it

008 | Comparison is a Thief of Joy AND a Source of it

Jul 14, 2020

Comparison is such a natural human experience that asking you to avoid it like the plague can be a lot like asking you to build a billion-dollar organization overnight. It’s pretty impossible. But many coaches and consultants will tell you to avoid ‘comparisonitis’ - the habit of comparing yourself, your skills, and your success to others. And while comparisonitis can be a thief of joy… it doesn’t have to be.

In fact, comparison, at its core, is not really good or bad.

It’s an ‘and.’

Today, I explain why comparison is a thief of joy AND a source of it. I explain why we feel the need to compare ourselves to others and why it’s actually a normal part of humanity. I discuss the two types of comparison and the benefits and disadvantages of each type. I explain the difference between malicious envy and benign envy and how we can use our envious feelings as a tool for personal growth and joy. I also explain how to reduce the harmful comparisons in your life while leveraging the truly beneficial ones that will help you experience more gratitude, celebration, and joy while expanding your personal and professional growth.

“If you can get rid of the ‘I’m not good enough,’ or the ‘I’m incapable,’ or the ‘there’s something wrong with me,’ then you can stay in a space of feeling that inspiration, that motivation to propel you forward and that gratitude and celebration for where you are.” - Erin Baker

This week on Life in the AND:

  • Understanding that comparing yourself to others is a natural human experience
  • Why trying to avoid comparisonitis can often backfire
  • The two types of comparison and the pros and cons of each type
  • The difference between malicious envy and benign envy
  • Being aware of when you’re comparing yourself to others
  • Identifying what your heart needs that your ego is trying to achieve for you
  • Determining whether the comparison is truly important and reasonable
  • Identifying what you’re making the comparisons mean about you

Embrace Life in the AND

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