By O.L Buckley/Sway Buckley
com·par·i·son
a consideration or estimate of the similarities or dissimilarities between two things or people.
Now that we've got the definition out of the way, let's tap into why comparison isn't a bad by itself, but when it's used as the reason for reaching false expectations of self (or others), it will always lead to an unfruitful end.
Comparison, when toxic, unlike other vices, is hidden in the heart until it isn't. It can sneak in even in the most unsuspecting ways. It can start with an innocent thought or conversation that, when left untamed, quickly spirals downward. Regarding the marriedpreneur journey, comparison can be a trap there too!
It always starts on the individual level, and it can be a simple comparison between:
- Your self and someone else
- Your spouse and someone else's spouse
- Your stuff and someone else's stuff
These are the common areas where comparison starts. We can begin in a state of contentment until we see something we want but don't yet have. The motive becomes a toxic trap if that desire to match or supersede someone else. The trap is not the effort but rather the constant feeling of unfulfillment that wins regardless of how much is attained.
On the other hand, comparison can be healthy when viewed from a healthy perspective as inspiration, not the metric. For example, a healthy comparison will have a fair and balanced perspective. If you see someone fitter than you, and it encourages you to want to work out because you desire the same outcome, then that can be a fair and balanced perspective. Rather than becoming so down on yourself and unhappy with your life until you become fitter than the person who inspired you. Can you see how the difference?
It's contentment vs. complacency. They are not the same.
But more on that tomorrow.
In the meantime, one of the best tools we use is prayer and support during our daily legacy meetings. In this sacred time, we can share how we can support each other for that day, as every day can be a different need (i.e., physically, emotionally, spiritually, etc.). This helps us to step in tune and align with what our spouse needs today. If you and your spouse want to start including a marriedpreneur legacy meeting in your day, you can start with our free Marriedpreneur Operating Systems Checklist here.
We're rootin' for you.
Here's to living purposefully, powerfully, and profitably in sync,
O.L. & Sway
O.L. is a former banker turned real estate consultant and entrepreneur. Sway is a former CEO of a staffing firm she started on her dorm room floor to pay for college. Together they co-own Marriedpreneur Life Consultancy, equipping married entrepreneur couples with high-level systems to scale without strain. They're the co-hosts of The Marriedprenuer Life Podcast, which was praised as one of Wedding Wire's top relationship podcasts. Learn more at MarriedpreneurLife.com.