Ever had one of those days where you feel proud for getting out the door, only to scroll through social media and see someone else has run 15km at a blistering pace — and suddenly, your little 20-minute walk doesn’t feel like it counts anymore?
That’s the comparison trap. And it’s one of the sneakiest things that can derail your progress and mess with your motivation.
Why comparison hits so hard (especially for beginners)
When you’re just starting out — or coming back after time off — everything can feel a bit fragile. You’re building something new. You’re not fully confident yet. And it’s so easy to look at someone else and feel like you’re doing it wrong.
But here’s the truth most people won’t say out loud:
Someone else’s distance doesn’t make yours less valuable.
Someone else’s speed doesn’t make your effort any less real.
And just because they’re further along, doesn’t mean you’re behind.
They’re just on a different chapter.
The things no one sees
It’s easy to measure runs in numbers — minutes, kilometres, pace. But the real stuff? That lives in the background.
- The courage it took just to start.
- The mental strength to keep going after a tough day.
- The quiet decision to walk when running felt too much, and not see that as failure.
No one else sees that part. But it matters.
In fact, it’s where the real transformation happens.
Three ways to shift your mindset when comparison creeps in
If comparison’s been robbing you of joy lately, try these gentle mindset shifts:
1. Focus on how it feels, not how it looks
Ask yourself: Did I move today in a way that supported my body and mind?
That’s a more useful question than Did I do enough to impress the algorithm?
Progress isn’t always visible. Sometimes it’s felt — in breath, in energy, in confidence.
2. Reclaim your definition of success
Maybe success is walking three times this week.
Maybe it’s showing up even when motivation’s low.
Maybe it’s not quitting when part of you wanted to.
Define it for yourself. And protect that definition fiercely.
3. Celebrate the quiet wins
You don’t need a race medal or a personal best to deserve celebration.
- Getting outside on a cold day
- Saying no to the inner critic
- Resting when your body needed it
These are wins. And they count. Big time.
Your pace is not the problem
The problem is the story we tell ourselves when we see someone doing more, faster, earlier.
We forget that their story isn’t ours. We forget that we’re allowed to be beginners. We forget that walking counts. That showing up counts.
So let this be your reminder:
You are not behind. You are not broken.
You are exactly where you need to be.
And every step forward — no matter how slow — is a triumph worth celebrating.
So, just to wrap up:
If you’ve been caught in the comparison trap lately, be kind to yourself.
Then close the app, take a breath, and go for your run, your walk, your pace.
Your journey is valid. And you’re doing better than you think.
