Cultivate Gratitude

A few months ago, I set out to ask dozens of women how they overcome the comparison trap. It’s been inspiring to catch a glimpse inside their hearts. Through this process, I’m learning so much about my own heart from some pretty incredible ladies.

For me, the only place to start when it comes to overcoming the comparison trap is with gratitude. Giving thanks, always. Whether it’s for big blessings like financial provision when it’s down to the wire, or small blessings like your favorite song coming on the radio the minute you turn on your car – there’s no way to get lost in comparing your life, your looks, your blog, your business to others’ when you’re lost in counting the rich blessings present in your very own life. – Valerie Keinsley

With the advent of social media, particularly Instagram and Facebook, it’s so easy to feel less than. It’s far too tempting to throw your hands up in the air and feel like you’ve missed the boat entirely: that one friend is a better chef than you, one’s thinner than you and one does more crafty, cutesy things than you. The lie is that we have to be all things to all people. The truth that is that we were created to live unique and purposeful lives with the gifts God has given us. The comparison trap is still such a struggle for me, but what helps me the most is to have a grateful heart. If I’m thankful for what I DO have and what gifts the Lord has given me, then I’m able to freely cheer others on while not feeling less-than. Gratitude is the start of the healing, I’m convinced. After that, it’s knowing that cheering other women on in their race doesn’t make your race any less significant, but rather just makes you a better person. – Laura Loewen 

What would it look like to get lost in the everyday rich blessings of your very own life? To have a grateful heart, no matter what? And to believe that you are enough–just as you are?

Take some time to reflect on all that you have to be thankful for.

(This is part of a series from write31days.com. To see all posts in this series, click here.)