From Comparison to Gratitude: Navigating Fall’s Fresh Start Energy
September’s fresh-start vibe can spark excitement—but also comparison. Social feeds, peers, and productivity culture can trigger “I’m behind” thinking.
Comparison can peak in September because we’re approaching the last quarter of the year. We start comparing what we still want to do to what others have already accomplished.
I like to tell myself that I’m not in competition with anyone. The only person that I’m trying to be better than is who I was last year.
You may think that comparison simply pushes you to try harder. The unfortunate truth about comparison is that it actually leads to discouragement. It steals the joy of personal growth.
So instead of falling into the comparison trap, shift into gratitude mode.
Gratitude interrupts comparison, it honors your own unique journey. True progress comes in the present, not someone else’s timeline.
Here are two questions for you to explore and two opportunities:
“What have I grown in since last September?”
“What’s one thing I’m proud of from this year so far?”
Journal your thoughts from these reflection prompts.
Start a gratitude journal, write three things each day.
Turn comparison into gratitude this fall and realize that nothing can stop you when you’re on your own growth journey.