The Double-Edged Sword of Comparison

In this episode, we're diving into something that touches all of our lives, especially in the world of sales - the act of comparing ourselves to others.

It's a bit of a rabbit hole, isn't it?

I'm reminded of that saying, "Comparison is the thief of joy." And none of us want our joy stolen, yet sometimes, we're our own culprits, measuring our lives against others in ways that don't serve us well.

Have you ever found yourself wondering, "How did he land that promotion?" or "Why did she get that territory and not me?"

It's a natural part of being human, so it's crucial to realise and remember,

that just because we see something in others, does not mean our own worth is diminished.

Each of us is on a unique journey - there's no hierarchy or scoreboard.

I remember my days at Xerox, working as a sales coordinator. There was this one time, at the end of a quarter, when I noticed how much one of the sales guys, David, had earned. He wasn't usually a top performer, yet there he was, out-earning many of us.

Not only did it make me question the fairness of it all, but more importantly, it sparked something in me—a desire to step into the sales arena myself. It was a classic case of the grass seeming greener on the other side, yet what I learned is that our grass can be just as lush, if not greener, on our own side of the fence - if we nurture it.

Look for the inspiration, instead.

Which brings me to the essence of today's newsletter - the pros and cons of comparison. It's like when you're sitting with friends, sharing your problems, and you realise that, given the choice, you'd still choose your own set of challenges.

It's a reminder to focus more on our paths and less on how they stack up against others.

Now, comparing ourselves isn't all bad. It can be a source of inspiration, a opportunity to get creative. It's kind of like ChatGPT - gives us the initial idea and off we go on our own aspirational path.

But it's crucial to differentiate between being inspired and feeling 'less than'.

We're all walking our paths, not climbing a hierarchical ladder.

Imagine you're on a trail, like the Camino de Santiago (which I walked in 2019). Some were ahead of me on that path because they started earlier, others because they walked faster, and others because they didn't experience the pain of the pilgrim blister (it's a thing, folks)!

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But here's the thing:

There's always someone behind us, and it's our role to lend a hand, just as we look ahead for inspiration and those who help us.

So, here's a thought - in your community, whether it's a sales team, a leadership group, or an entrepreneurial circle, seek out those who inspire you.

Draw on their strengths, learn from their journey. And when you're comfortable in your own skin and are aware of your own special gifts, you'll find that most people are eager to share their insights (so long as you don't abuse that privilege).

Here's 3 quick prescriptions to help you along your way:

1. Embrace Your Own Unique Path and Celebrate Your Achievements
2. Practice Gratitude For Who You Are And What You Already Have
3. Define Your Own Personal Goals and Compete With Yourself Instead

So, let's think deeper re the dual nature of comparison—the growth it can foster and the scarcity it can perpetuate. Observe yourself and your own thoughts, lean into actions that uplift you, and remember, when energy and flow are present, growth is inevitable.

Continue to be Bold, Brave and Brilliant!

Bernadette

P.S. If you wish to recommend a Sales Leader in Colorado attend the next Focus Group please DM me. Thank you.

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