#5: comparing is draining
What’s on my mind
Comparing is pointless.
When we compare, we typically take the strengths of others and put it against our weaknesses.
Even if we eventually get better in one area, there’s something else to improve on.
It’s a never-ending game.
Instead, focus on how you can beat yesterday. That is, your yesterday, not someone else’s.
Focus on what you can improve internally, not externally.
The more you do what truly satisfies you, the less likely you are to compare.
You can be anything, but you can’t be everything.
This week’s stories
🖼 25 illustrated ideas that could change your life
If you’re like me, as you scroll down this list of ideas, you’ll find yourself saying “YES” to some, “that makes sense” to others, and “that’s a good reminder” to the rest.
25 sounds like a lot though. I’m going to take one and remind myself about until I’m better at it:
Rest before you are tired.
Let me know in comments or by replying to this email.
{6-min read}
🌱 Should you generalize or specialize?
What should you get good at? Should you be great at one thing? Or average at a few things?
How about picking a couple of skills that are rarely combined, and collectively making them your own specialized generalization?
For example, negotiation, public speaking or writing could be great add-ons to whatever your core competency is.
Imagine an outstanding programmer who can also give a good presentation. Or a top-notch accountant equally great at writing.
There are limitless opportunities to combine. And be in demand.
{6-min watch}
🚀 How you can become a 10xer
By definition, a 10xer is someone who brings 10 times the average value to the table within a personal or professional context. How to be one?
See opportunities where others only see threats. Be positive, not negative. Make your team better. Do everything you say you are going to do.
And there’s more ways to be exceptional.
{7-min read}
🌏 The best networking is not networking
This goes a layer deeper than conventional networking advice.
There’s more to be gained by playing the long game. By creating products (in different shapes and forms) that attract people to your mindset, skills and philosophy.
Make something awesome and tell people about it. Making things is also the only way to network upwards.
{6-min read}
🤔 How to stop overthinking
Overthinking is a common trap! But it’s hard on our brains and wellbeing in general to worry about things before they’re real.
Becoming more self aware by identifying it as a habit (that you can get out of), and “reconnecting with your immediate world” are two starting points for an end.
{6-min read}
Final Thought
The more you know what you really want and where you are really going, the more what everybody else is doing starts to diminish.
—Alain de Botton