LIFE

We all have friends that are textbook overachievers. They get great grades, they’re always busy excelling in sports and getting leads in school plays. And then there’s us. Yeah, we’re pretty great. But sometimes, when we compare ourselves to our friends, we seem downright inadequate. And boo, does that feeling stink! It’s time to ditch the blues and embrace what’s awesome about us.

Keep score
No, we’re not talking about +1 for Janie’s All-American honors, -1 for your forgotten homework. We want you to keep a running list of all the things you accomplish, big and small, for one whole week. Note everything from improving your total number of push-ups completed to acing a pop quiz to mastering your front walk-over. Keeping track of all the little things will realize how accomplished you really are—no need for comparison there.

Branch out
Sometimes these feelings arise when our own lives and interests are feeling stagnant. If you’re bored by your extracurricular activities, it might just be time to add something new to the list, or up the challenge factor. If you’re artsy, try a class in medium you’ve never worked with. If you’re musical, sign up for your school’s Battle of the Bands. Giving yourself something new to focus on will leave you determined to succeed, not worrying about comparing yourself to other girls’ successes.

Find a cheerleader
If you’re always on the sidelines rooting for your best bud, it’s normal to feel disappointed when she doesn’t return the favor. Invite her to a gymnastics practice so she can see you perform your new routine, or a gallery opening where you’re showcasing some photographs. She probably has no clue you’re feeling this way, so open up to her and ask for a li’l support. We bet she’ll be pleased as punch to cheer you on.

When was the last time you tried something new? What recent accomplishment are you proud of? Sound off below!

by Brittany Taylor | 12/11/2017