When Comparison Helps–and When It Just Hurts
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Let’s be honest, comparison is part of being human.
You’re scrolling through Instagram, and suddenly you’re wondering why their house is so perfect!
Or you’re talking to a friend and thinking, “Wait… how can she afford that vacation I can only dream about?”
Or you hear someone has a New York Times bestseller, and you start questioning your weekly blog post routine.
Just me? Didn’t think so.
The thing is, comparison isn’t always bad. In fact, sometimes it’s helpful. But only if you're comparing the right things.
Getting Started
Helpful Comparison: The Kind You Can Do Something About
If someone’s doing something that lights a little spark in you, pay attention.
Like maybe you notice someone who’s really consistent with their email list or shows up weekly with helpful Instagram Lives. That kind of comparison can be a nudge. "Hey, I want more of that energy in my life, too."
Or maybe you hear how a friend automates their savings every month, and it inspires you to take a closer look at your own finances, not with shame, but with curiosity.
These are comparisons that point toward action, not self-judgment.
Not-So-Helpful Comparison: The Kind That Feels Like a Punch in the Gut
This is the kind where you compare your middle to someone else’s highlight reel. Like wondering why your coaching business doesn’t look like someone else's… when they’ve been doing it for ten years, have a full team, and run ads with a budget that could fund your kid’s college tuition.
Or comparing your blog to someone with a massive book deal, as if those two things belong on the same scale.
Or comparing your income to someone else's… without knowing anything about their expenses, investments, support systems, or even what trade-offs they’ve made to get there.
That kind of comparison is sneaky. It often sounds like:
“Why am I not further along?” “What’s wrong with me?” “I’ll never catch up.”
And that’s where it hurts more than helps.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.