Lifestyle

7 Ways To Get Back To Reality If You Feel Like Everyone's Better Off Than You

by Bria Barrows
Jovo Jovanovic

Prior to becoming a 20-something life was fairly simple. High school may have been a struggle for us all, but for the most part, it was easy to find a friend in high-school who was going through the exact same thing as you.

Our young souls didn't yet know about the real trials that would come along  after graduation.

We had high hopes, dreams and aspirations and couldn't wait to embark on the next step to college to live out life on our own, with the world at our feet. When we finally ventured out into the real world we realized that finding ourselves would be the journey of a lifetime.

But we have finally become one with ourselves. We realize now the importance of finding a balance between becoming who we need to be and not wondering about what everyone else has going on.

You know what I mean. It's that feeling you get when a girlfriend announces a new, great relationship, while you struggle to find peace with your singledom, or hearing that all in all, everyone's life seems more glamorous than yours.

I'm here to tell you something! That lie you've been believing is far from true. We're all the same, we all have some amazing, and some not so amazing experiences, and we're struggling to find our place in the world.

Here are seven ways to stop believing everyones life is better than yours:

1. Take a social media break. I insist.

Of course your social media presence is valuable, and many people love your awesome posts and pictures, but you are not obliged to your accounts. You are obliged to your well being.

Social media is very much built on the facade of perfection, showing only the good. Everyone looks perfect on Instagram, but what you don't see are the low moments everyone goes through behind closed doors.

If you feel like you're overwhelmed and you constantly find yourself trying to compete with others, take a break for as long as you need and re-evaluate how you use social media. It's not a bad thing. You'll feel more centered and in tune with yourself.

2. Even if your friends don't say it, they're going through the exact same thing as you.

Don't be fooled. When you believe that you are the only one going through a rough time, I can guarantee that you're not. The life of a 20-something comes with plenty of ups and downs that are similar for every person.

Find ways to cope when you feel alone: go outside, write in a journal, take a drive -- whatever makes you feel better, do it. You're strong enough to handle anything.

3. Just because your time comes later, doesn't mean you're behind.

I know this can seem very discouraging at first. When you see other people progressing before you, you can't help but compare.

But the dynamic of your life was built specifically for you and no one else, so what works for someone else, may be disastrous for you. Keep this in mind and you'll realize it's easier for you to be happier for others.

4. Spend time alone.

I'm actually surprised af that I'm such an advocate for this right now seeing as loneliness gets on my damn nerves sometimes. But hey, I must be evolving.

Spending time alone can be refreshing and therapeutic because you are getting to know yourself. Once you have fully developed who you are, you won't have time to worry about anyone else.

5. Continue to build on what makes you unique.

I absolutely love the fact that I can sing, write and have a charming personality. Yes honey, I am tooting my own horn. When you remind yourself of what makes you stand out and what you bring to the table, you will feel powerful.

6. Count your blessings

What do you have in your life that you're thankful for? I have struggled with thankfulness because, naturally, it's easier to focus on what more we want.

When you look back on your journey, look at how far you have come and all the struggles you thought you couldn't get through. You did that. Your life is better than you're giving it credit for.

7. Your story is incredible, remember that.

Let me quote Oprah and say, "One thing I know for sure," is that your story is an amazing one that is meant to be told. Everything you have gone through reveals a powerful message. You rock, your story rocks and so does your unique journey.