How can I stop comparing myself to others at work?

Comparing yourself to others at work is something almost everyone does.

A colleague that gets recognized, someone else lands a promotion, and suddenly you're measuring your worth against theirs.

As this is a very human response because our brains are wired to look outward for signals about how we're doing, especially in environments where progress feels visible and performance feels permanent.

But when that habit becomes constant, it can then quietly chip away at your own confidence and starts driving decisions based on other people's paths rather than your own.

And one of the most useful shifts you can make is to start noticing what's actually driving that comparison, because sometimes it comes from external pressure, a culture at work that rewards certain types of achievement, messages from family, or social media that packages other people's highlights as their everyday reality.

So when you can identify where that feeling is coming from, it can start to lose some of its grip.

And then you could gently ask yourself, what is it that I actually want here?

And separate that from what everyone else seems to be doing because getting honest about that question helps you to move forward from chasing someone else's version of success to building something that fits yourself.

And practical ways to start with this is just by starting small.

So at the end of each week, write down three things that you did well or move forward on or you felt proud of, no matter how small they seem, as this starts to train your attention towards your own growth rather than keeping it locked in everyone else's.

And also take a look at your environment, because if scrolling through LinkedIn or sitting near colleagues who constantly compete leaves you feeling worse, those are real triggers worth managing because you get to choose where you put your focus.

So noticing what lights you'll put at work and leaning into more of that is far more sustainable than trying to keep up with others all the time.

Now, if comparing yourself to others at work is significantly affecting your confidence, your performance, or how you feel in a day-to-day, it might be worth speaking to a therapist who can help you explore what's underneath it.

This is especially worth considering, especially if it's linked to anxiety, low mood, or a longer pattern of not feeling good enough.

And you can also explore the app's resources for further support around self worth and confidence at work.

But if you are thinking about harming yourself and feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.