Thomas J. DeLong, a professor at Harvard Business School, has noted a disturbing trend among his students and colleagues—a “comparison obsession." He writes: “More so than ever before . . . business executives, Wall Street analysts, lawyers, doctors, and other professionals are obsessed with comparing their own achievements against those of others. . . . This is bad for individuals and bad for companies—when you define success based on external rather than internal criteria, you diminish your satisfaction and commitment.”
Comparison obsession isn’t new. When Jacob and Esau meet after a
20 year absence Esau said, “I have much” and Jacob said, “God was gracious to
me and I have all.” (Gen. 33:9-11) Rabbi
Abraham Twersky comments: “In these simple passages the Torah tells us the
fundamental difference between Jacob and Esau. Both amasses a fortune, but
whereas Esau says, “I have much” Jacob says, “I have all.” (Living Each
Week, page 67) Esau will never be satisfied with his lot because he
continually compares himself to others. People like Esau have much but never
enough. On the other hand, a person like Jacob understands that God has blessed
him with everything he needs and lives a happier and more satisfied life. Ben Zoma in Pirke Avot says: Who is rich? One
who is satisfied with his lot.’ 4:1
By God’s grace we can learn to overcome comparison
obsession by focusing on the life God has given to us. As we take moments to
thank God for everyday blessings, we change our thinking and begin to live a
more grateful, happier, and satisfied life.
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