Good morning, my name is Xin Tan and I am Coach Fei Yun.
First and foremost, I wish you the utmost happiness in your life. You and your boyfriend love each other and are on the precipice of matrimony, which is something to be envied. However, you are troubled by your conscious or unconscious comparison with others around you. Although you are aware of it, you are unsure of how to rectify the situation.
Let's take a moment to discuss the issue and potential solutions together.
?1. People are shaped by their environment, and comparison is a natural consequence.
As I previously stated, I am also comparing you. For a middle-aged woman who has been married for more than ten years, she still looks forward to and reminisces about the feeling of being a bride.
No individual exists in isolation, and the practice of comparing oneself to others is a common habit. Why do people especially like to compare themselves to those around them?
The reason is straightforward: we are all similar in many ways. I compare you to me because we are both women; you compare yourself to your colleagues because you are colleagues and have many of the same resources.
Similarly, the beggar does not envy the wealthy, but rather the other beggars in his vicinity. This is because "similarity" prompts us to compare ourselves with those around us.
Let us examine the impact of comparison on us. As you have stated, it causes negative feelings and also affects the development of your relationship with your boyfriend, which is detrimental and unproductive.
The term "compare" is loaded with negative connotations. When we make comparisons, we often experience feelings of envy and jealousy.
The desire to possess the same things and undergo the same experiences as others is a form of envy. If these desires cannot be fulfilled, there may be a tendency to destroy what one does not have, which is a more serious form of jealousy.
Regardless of whether it is envy or jealousy, there is a limiting belief at its core: "I am not good enough."
Comparisons result in a diminished sense of self-worth, self-doubt, and self-denial. This can manifest as a belief that one is unworthy or undeserving of success or recognition.
Often, this is a result of childhood experiences and parenting styles. If we are frequently criticized, blamed, denied, or our feelings are ignored, it is easy to develop a low sense of worth and a sense of unworthiness.
2. When used correctly, comparisons can be a valuable tool.
It is beneficial to recognize that you possess a high level of emotional awareness and the ability to discern your emotions. Furthermore, it is important to understand the detrimental impact that comparison can have on your personal growth and the quality of your relationship with your partner.
When we identify our feelings of envy or jealousy, we are already taking steps towards change. It is important to continue to recognize the underlying needs that drive these emotions, which often stem from a sense of entitlement or a lack of self-worth.
It is recommended that you:
1. Compare yourself with others and then switch to comparing yourself with yourself. Focus on the changes and growth/progress that have occurred between now and the past.
2) Enhance your sense of worth by providing yourself with positive reinforcement. Affirm your intrinsic value and worthiness. Focus on your strengths and resources, such as the relationship with your boyfriend and his care for you.
3) Communicate more with your partner. It is important to be open and honest about your views and feelings in order to gain his understanding and support.
I hope the above is helpful to you.
Best regards,
[Your name]
If you wish to continue the conversation, please click on "Find a Coach" located in the upper right corner or at the bottom of the page. I will communicate and grow with you one-on-one.
Comments
I understand where you're coming from. Comparing ourselves to others is something we all do sometimes, but it's great that you've recognized it's not helping your relationship. Maybe try focusing on what you and your boyfriend have built together and celebrate the unique journey you two share. Every couple has their own timeline, and acknowledging your progress can help shift your perspective.
It sounds like a challenging place to be in. It might help to remind yourself of the reasons you and your partner chose each other. Instead of comparing, consider setting personal goals with your boyfriend that are meaningful to both of you. This could help reinforce your bond and make you feel more secure in your relationship as you work towards these milestones together.
Comparisons can really get us down, can't they? But it's wonderful that you're aware it affects your happiness and relationship. Try practicing gratitude for what you have; perhaps keep a journal of things you appreciate about your boyfriend and your relationship. Over time, this might help retrain your mind to focus on positives rather than slipping into comparisons.
Feeling this way must be tough, especially when you see others around you reaching milestones. One thing that might help is talking openly with your boyfriend about how you feel. Sharing these concerns can bring you closer and let him reassure you of his commitment. Also, remember that every relationship is different, and yours has its own special qualities worth cherishing.