How to Stop Comparing Yourself and Start Building Your Own Path
At 18 years old, as a freshman at JMU, I’ve learned more about life in the past couple of years than I ever thought possible. And it wasn’t because things were easy—they weren’t.
I know what it’s like to feel behind. To not get attention from girls. To be the kid everyone teased. And let me tell you, I carried that with me for years. The doubt. The feeling that I wasn’t enough. But at some point, I realized that comparing myself to others was only making things worse.
The truth is, we’re all fighting battles no one sees. And while it’s tempting to look at someone else’s life and feel like you’re not measuring up, that mindset will keep you stuck.
So let me share what’s helped me break free from the comparison trap and start building my own path. If I can do it, you can too.
1. Don’t Let the Highlight Reel Fool You
When you’re scrolling through social media or seeing people around you succeed, it’s easy to think, Why can’t that be me? But here’s the thing: What you’re seeing is their highlight reel, not their struggles.
People might look at me now and think I’ve got it together, but they don’t see the sleepless nights, the times I’ve doubted myself, or the hard work it’s taken to get here.
Remember: You’re comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s best moments. Stop letting the surface fool you into thinking you’re not good enough.
2. Keep Trying New Things
When I was younger, I didn’t think I’d ever figure it out. I felt lost, unsure of who I was or where I was headed. But one thing I’ve learned is that the key to moving forward is to keep trying.
It’s not about getting it right on the first try. It’s about showing up, learning from your mistakes, and trying again. Whether it’s a new skill, a new mindset, or even just a new way of looking at yourself—keep experimenting until something clicks.
Here’s What I Did: I started with fitness. It was something I could control. Then I moved into learning about business, marketing, and personal growth. Each step, no matter how small, helped me build the life I’m working toward now.
3. Stop Letting Your Ego Hold You Back
I’ll be honest—my ego has been my biggest obstacle. It’s the voice that says, “You’re fine the way you are,” even when you know you need to change. It’s the voice that stops you from asking for help because you don’t want to look weak.
But here’s the truth: Your ego isn’t your friend. Letting go of it was one of the hardest, but most necessary, steps I’ve ever taken.
At 18, I know what it’s like to feel like you have something to prove. But I’ve learned that proving things to others doesn’t matter. What matters is proving to yourself that you’re capable of growth.
Ask Yourself:
Are you holding back because you’re scared of failing?
Are you staying in your comfort zone because it feels safer?
Let your ego go. It’s not helping you—it’s holding you back.
4. Your Disadvantages Don’t Define You
Growing up, I faced plenty of disadvantages. I was made fun of, doubted, and overlooked. It’s not easy to be the kid who’s underestimated. But what I’ve realized is this: Your disadvantages are your power.
They force you to work harder. They push you to be creative. They make you resilient in ways other people will never understand.
If I can go from being the quiet kid who didn’t think he’d ever figure it out to launching businesses and pursuing my dreams, you can too. Your disadvantages don’t define you—they shape you.
5. Build Your Own Path
The most important lesson I’ve learned is this: Your journey is yours. It doesn’t matter how fast or slow you’re moving, as long as you’re moving forward.
I’m just 18, and I’ve got a long way to go. But every day, I’m working to create the life I want—not because it’s easy, but because I know it’s worth it.
And so is yours. Stop comparing yourself to others and start focusing on your own progress. Write down your goals. Take small steps. Celebrate the little wins.
Your path might not look like anyone else’s, but that’s the beauty of it.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This
I know what it’s like to feel stuck, doubted, and overlooked. I’ve been there, and I’m still figuring it out. But if I’ve learned one thing, it’s this: The only person you need to compete with is the person you were yesterday.
So stop comparing, stop doubting, and stop letting your ego hold you back. Build your path, one step at a time, and don’t let anything or anyone stop you.
If I can do it, you can too.
