As we journey together toward improving your English, it's essential to talk about something that can affect your confidence and overall progress: the habit of comparing ourselves to others.
Understanding Comparison
Comparison is when you look at someone else's abilities, achievements, or qualities and measure them against your own. For instance, you might see someone speaking English fluently and think, "I wish I could speak like them. They are so much better than me.”
I know this is something I did in my first Impro Theater class.
I believe comparing ourselves is something we do naturally and maybe even unconsciously, which is why it’s important to understand what we do.
Why Is Comparing Ourselves to Others a Problem?
Undermines Your Progress: Comparisons can make you overlook your own growth. For example, maybe when you started, you couldn't even introduce yourself in English, but now you can have a simple conversation. That's great progress! But, if you compare yourself to someone more advanced, you might not recognize your improvement, which will have a negative influence on your confidence!
Causes Fear and Anxiety: Constant comparison can create fear and anxiety, hindering your ability to speak. If you're always worried about speaking as well as others, you may feel too nervous to practice speaking at all. (Can’t wait to show you all my Phil & Friends program! Almost finished…)
Creates Unfair Expectations: Everyone has their own pace in learning. Some might understand English faster because of various factors like a similar native language (French + English are more similar than Chinese + English) or more time to practice. Comparing yourself to them can lead to unrealistic expectations, which may discourage you when you can't meet them.
Focus on Your Own Journey
Just as every person is unique, so is every language learning journey. Remember, the goal is not to become a copy of someone else but to become a better version of yourself.
Measure Your Success By Your Own Standards
The only valid comparison is with yourself!
Were you better today than yesterday? Did you learn a new word, or a new phrase, or improve your pronunciation? Celebrate these victories! They are signs that you are growing and moving forward in your English journey.
Remember to embrace your unique path and celebrate your progress. After all, learning English is not a race; it's a personal journey. And remember, you have a supportive coach/trainer/teacher here to help you every step of the way : )
Let’s continue this journey with joy, fun, and a little hard work!
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