​Compare Yourself to Others? Take a Break From Social Media & Do This Instead! by Donna John

Go on your Facebook or Instagram feed and you’ll be hard pressed not to find selfies of people flexing at the gym or sunbathing in a bikini. Do you find that you constantly compare yourself to others? Dr. Kirk Brandow, founder and director of the Brandow Clinic for Cosmetic Surgery who has appeared on national programs such as "Good Morning America" and "20/20," says comparison mindset is incredibly common.

“Ten years ago people would come to me with pictures of celebrities, and now they’re showing me random people on their social media feeds,” says Dr. Brandow. “It is unreasonable to compare yourself to a celebrity as they have a team of trainers and stylists that help them achieve and maintain a certain desired look. Today people see their high school friend on social media with the perfect breasts and they want that same look. People are really comparing themselves to everyone now.”

Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a NYC-based licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Service, advises taking breaks from social media and doing body strengthening and range of motion exercises that also weave in breathing and mindfulness such as yoga or tai chi. “When you are aware of your body’s strength and your general well-being, you’re not going to compare yourself to others. When you’re too busy enjoying a happy, healthy, you won’t care if your thighs are less toned than someone else’s.”