In counseling, I observed that most of the frustrations some people express stem from comparing themselves with others. Then, they start a hot pursuit for success because of what they've seen their neighbours achieve.

For instance, some mature singles who come crying about their singleness will talk about how their friends are married and settled in their homes not minding whether those friends are happy in their marriages. Some young men often talk about classmates or colleagues who are at the top of their career and doing fine not minding if they are in good health or not.

It could be more frustrating listening to a preacher share some of his frustrations in the counseling room. He may start comparing his church attendance with a church that started after him and how he has been to the mountain to pray, attend seminars yet without growth.

Then I concluded that If there was no one to compare with, there might not be any reason to get depressed or frustrated about the current state of your life. Also, If comparison is out of the picture, there may be no unhealthy pursuit of success.

Your motivation to succeed and become better shouldn't be because of your neighbour's success it should be borne out of a discovery of God's plan for your life and a healthy goal you've set to achieve those things God want you to achieve.

2 Corinthians 10:12 says, "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise".

Social media makes it worse. As you see beautiful pictures of your friends, their families, job, cars, houses, travels,etc, Satan will come telling you, "that could have been you".

You'll be adding to your frustration&depression as you look at the progress others are making instead of looking at what the Lord is doing or has done in your life. Satan robs us of a heart of gratitude because he makes us look at what is happening to others but he blinds us to what God has done for us.

The truth is that If you compare your current state of life with another person, you'll see you are better than some people but that is not the way to go.

Don't be motivated to succeed out of comparison. You may veer off the track through Satanic suggestions. Your motivation to succeed should be borne out of a desire to be the best God has designed you to be by setting&pursuing goals that will break your personal limitations*.