Have you ever found yourself scrolling through social media, looking at someone else’s “perfect” life, and thinking, Why isn’t my life like that? It’s so easy to feel like you’re falling behind, like your life isn’t exciting enough, beautiful enough, or successful enough. But here’s the truth, comparison is the thief of joy, and Islam gives us the perfect blueprint to break free from it.
Let’s take a deep dive into how you can stop comparing yourself to others and start embracing the happiness that Allah (SWT) has already written for you.
1. Shift Your Focus: Look at Those Who Have Less
One of the most powerful teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is this:
“Look at those below you (less fortunate than you), and do not look at those above you, for this is better.” (Sahih Muslim)
Social media constantly pushes us to look up, to those who seem to have more, do more, and be more. But Islam teaches the opposite. When you focus on those who have less than you, gratitude fills your heart.
Action Step: Every morning, write down three things you’re grateful for. Whether it’s your health, family, or even the ability to pray, gratitude will shift your mindset from comparison to contentment.
2. Define Success on Your Terms (Not the World’s)
The world glorifies wealth, beauty, and fame, but our Prophet (PBUH) reminds us:
“Richness does not lie in the abundance of worldly goods, but richness is the richness of the soul.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Success isn’t about having the latest designer handbag or the perfect Instagram feed, it’s about having a peaceful heart and a strong connection with Allah (SWT).
Action Step: Ask yourself, What does success mean to me in the eyes of Allah? Set spiritual and personal goals based on that, not what society tells you to chase.
3. Guard Your Heart from the Dangers of Envy
Jealousy poisons the heart, and even the best of us struggle with it. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Beware of jealousy, for verily it destroys good deeds the way fire destroys wood.” (Abu Dawood)
Instead of letting envy take over, make du’a for the person you feel jealous of. This may feel difficult, but it’s a game-changer. When you genuinely ask Allah (SWT) to bless someone even more, your heart softens, and the jealousy fades away.
Action Step: Next time you feel envy creeping in, say: Ya Allah, grant them even more and bless me with what is best for me. Watch how your heart finds peace.
4. Limit Social Media & Filter What You See
Let’s be real, social media is a highlight reel. You’re comparing your real life to someone else’s carefully curated moments. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“A sign of a person’s excellence in Islam is leaving what does not concern him.” (Tirmidhi)
Scrolling mindlessly through others’ lives does not concern you. What does concern you is your personal growth, your relationship with Allah, and your happiness.
Action Step: Unfollow or mute accounts that make you feel insecure. Replace them with Islamic reminders, Quran recitations, and uplifting content that nurtures your soul.
5. Trust Allah’s Plan for YOU
Allah (SWT) has written your story perfectly. Your timeline is not meant to be the same as anyone else’s. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Know that what has missed you was never meant to hit you, and what has hit you was never meant to miss you.” (Sunan Abu Dawood)
Everything you desire, marriage, career success, happiness, will come exactly when it’s meant to. Your job? Trust Allah and do your best.
Action Step: When you feel impatient or doubtful, say Hasbunallahu wa ni’mal wakeel (Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best disposer of affairs) and believe that Allah’s plan is always better than yours.
Final Thoughts: It’s Time to Stop Comparing and Start Living
Imagine how much lighter your heart will feel when you let go of comparison and focus on gratitude, trust, and your own journey. Happiness isn’t found in someone else’s life, it’s already within your own if you open your heart to it.