Cancers of the Mind- Week 1

“Cancers of the Mind: Comparing, Complaining, Criticizing.”

― Jay Shetty, Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day

This month the focus is on what not to focus on, or as Jay clearly states the cancers of our mind, what holds us back.

The first focus will be on comparing. "Comparison is the thief of joy.”
—Theodore Roosevelt

Who do you most frequently compare yourself to?

If you’re not sure, try this question: Who have you compared yourself to in the last 24 hours? This exercise is from Psychology Today, Susan Biali Haas M.D.  It happens so quickly, you go out to lunch and you see someone you haven’t seen in a while and they lost 15 pounds, look fit and healthy. You could express happiness to them on their transformation or you could think I look old, tired and unhealthy compared to them.

 Of course, if you’re scrolling on social media you are bound to start comparing. Whether it's clothes, bodies, skin, vacations, children or whatever. Something in the above list will draw you in. Instead of feeling happy and light you think I don’t have that, I am not that, I’m not that happy. If you just recognized yourself in the above, maybe today is the day to stop comparing and start living your own authentic life.

 In both scenarios you are passing judgment of yourself. Comparing yourself to someone else is never a formula for success.

Self-awareness is the first step to change. If you recognize yourself comparing whether in person or online try first taking a pause. Then if you are on social media take a break from it. Walk away.

If it is in person, get quiet, take a breath, and give yourself space. Then make a decision to either give a genuine compliment or say nothing. Whatever is comfortable for you. Then in both situations give yourself a pat on the back for not going to a cancer of the mind. We can change the way we think, it's a practice.