Understanding the Impact of Social Comparison Theory on Your Life
Social comparison theory was originally proposed by Leon Festinger in the 1950s, and it proposes that people determine their own social and personal worth based on how they stack up against others. This theory has deep consequences in our day to day lives, from the notions of self-esteem and motivation to more generally, mental well-being. As we explore it, remember that our comparison challenges are rooted in social comparison theory.
Where Social Comparison Comes From
In essence, the theoretical framework that underlies social comparison theory is a basic human motivation to understand themselves and others through comparing their statuses with those of similar others. Especially in cases where people lack faith their skills and opinions. If you are deciding whether or not to think of yourself as a runner, for example, consider how the performance numbers compare between you and your friends.
Comparison: Up versus Down
Social comparisons are usually of two types, upward comparison and downward comparison.
- Upward Comparisons: This is a process that happens when we compare ourselves to someone, whom we think are better or more successful in life. Now, this can be a positive or negative thing depending on which light we view it in: if we felt like crap because they were leagues ahead of us then… .yeah.
- In contrast, Downward Comparisons… are the comparisons where we look at people less well-off than us. That can certainly build up our confidence and reassurance… but it is also how we get complacent, fail to expand.
Social Media and Its Role
In the digital era of today, it is social media that increases those effects even more. Instagram and other platforms help craft a slanted version of reality where everyone is always living their best life. Which leads to the dangerous comparisons – people tend to think they are falling short constantly looking at others' highlight reels resulting in a higher rate of depression and anxiety.
Combatting Negative Effects
- Awareness: The first aspect of dealing with the downsides from social comparison is simply awareness. Acknowledging when you compare is a stepping stone to becoming greater.
- Take edit on exposure: I often preach this. Less time online; if you can, be inspired –curate your feed when times are tough so the rude people get hidden at best or blocked at worst (sorry not sorry)— who tells me what to do?!
- Start Focussing on Personal Growth — Instead of Making Comparisons Start focusing to grow yourself instead reducing the other person. Revel in the journey that has been uniquely yours, and chart your own course for what success looks like.
Conclusion
Social Comparison theory can help us better understand our own behavior and level of self-esteem. Once we know that it is natural to compare ourselves with others, for good or ill… does the process of comparison cause you pain at time? (ya think?) … then we can take action around comparisons and build an even better self-esteem/mindset. In the end, it is important to accept your own journey and be grateful for what you have achieved even if they can be compared with others.