Great words by Theodore Roosevelt. We live in a world obsessed with comparison. Social media, workplace evaluations, even casual conversations—all are riddled with phrases like better than, worse than, more successful, less talented, faster, slower, stronger, weaker. These comparative terms subtly shape our mindset, often leaving us feeling either inadequate or superior. Neither outcome is healthy.

I dislike comparative language because it shifts our focus away from personal growth and gratitude. Instead of appreciating where we are, we fixate on where we aren’t. Instead of celebrating others, we measure ourselves against them. Comparison creates an invisible scoreboard where we’re constantly ranking ourselves, but there’s no actual finish line—just exhaustion and discontent.

In recent years, the conversation surrounding mental health has intensified, with increasing awareness about anxiety, depression, and other related disorders. One prominent voice in this discussion is Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and professor at New York University. His book, "The Anxious Generation," delves into the rising levels of anxiety among young people, exploring the underlying causes and potential solutions.