Confessions Of An Unlikely HousewifeНамуна

Sometimes I compare myself to other women, even my friends. 

There, I said it.

Is that terrible?!

On more than one occasion, I’ve watched what everyone else is doing on TV, online or in my social circle and felt totally convinced that my house isn’t big enough, my wardrobe is a disaster, my hair is a wreck, I’m ruining my children and my marriage isn’t going to make it til the end of the month.

Have you ever been bitten by the comparison bug, only to be left writhing in pain from its sting?

It’s an easy trap to fall into, especially if you’re already not feeling great about certain aspects of your life in the first place.

But I’ve learned that I can positively affect the course of my day, the climate of my marriage and even the temperament of my children when I stop obsessing about how I measure up to other people and choose to appreciate all the good things happening around me instead. 

At the 2016 Summer Olympics, US swimmer Michael Phelps was photographed barreling down his lane in the 200-meter butterfly. His gaze was straight ahead, laser-focused on completing the race. Beside him, the photo also captured one of Phelps’ opponents, but he wasn’t looking at the finish line at all. Instead, he was looking at Phelps.

Can you guess who took home the gold medal that day?

Not only do we contribute to our own discontent when we focus on other people instead of our own journey, but we stifle our progress! 

Is it time to shift your focus from what everyone else is doing and re-calibrate toward the treasures in your own neck of the woods?

If you’re on a limited budget and can’t prioritize updated home decor at the moment, turn off HGTV and simply be thankful for what you do have.

It’s great to honor the gifts and abilities you see in others, but don’t forget to value the skills and giftings that God has graciously given to you, too. 

Instead of silently comparing your husband to other men that you think are more romantic or attentive than he is, shift gears and show genuine appreciation to your mate for the great things he’s already doing, big or small.

When comparison comes to knock you off course, choose gratitude for what you have and appreciation for who God says you are to keep you focused, flourishing and fulfilled.