Running a small business can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with challenges, many of which stem from the dreaded comparison game.

As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves measuring our progress against others, whether it’s a competitor’s new product launch, a peer’s growing social media following, or a friend’s booming sales figures.

While comparing yourself to others is natural, it can quickly become a toxic habit that undermines your confidence, stifles creativity, and distracts you from your path to success.

Let’s explore why the comparison game is so damaging and practical strategies that can help you break free from its grip, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: building a business that reflects your unique vision and values.

Everyone starts at zero

Understanding that no one starts a business with sales or a strong following and that it takes a lot of time, and effort should come as a comfort.

I always tell my clients not to compare their first day to someone else’s 100th. We all have to start somewhere, but your actions and mindset in those first 100 days will lay the foundation for the success or failure you will face.

Let’s start with adopting a growth mindset.

A growth mindset, as opposed to a fixed mindset, is the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort and learning.

When you view challenges and setbacks as opportunities to grow rather than as indicators of failure, you’re more likely to stay motivated and less likely to compare yourself to others.

a growth mindset is essential for success because it encourages continuous improvement, resilience, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.

When you embrace the idea that your business is a work in progress, every experience—good or bad—is a stepping stone toward success, you will be successful.

Now, let’s define success.

Success looks different for everyone. Take some time to define and reflect on what success means for you and your business.

Is it financial freedom, work-life balance, making a difference in your community, or something else?

Your definition of success probably looks different from mine, and that’s completely okay!

When you set your benchmark of success, you’ll be less tempted to measure yourself against others because you’re on a different path than they are. You’ll start to see yourself as an ally rather than a competitor.

Next, let’s tackle social media

Social media can be a breeding ground for comparison. If you find that scrolling through your feed makes you feel less than, it might be time to take a break or unfollow accounts that trigger negative feelings.

Use social media intentionally—to connect, learn, and share your journey.

Instead of viewing other small businesses as competition, consider them as part of a broader community. Collaborate, share insights, and support one another.

When you shift from competition to community, you create an environment where everyone can thrive.

You have so much value to offer, and your offering may resonate better with some viewers. This leads us into the next part which is focusing on your unique value proposition.

What makes your business unique? Whether it’s your product, your service, or the experience you offer customers, focusing on your unique value proposition can help you stay grounded in what you bring to the table, rather than what others are doing.

Showing up and maintaining consistency will show your audience that your content is relevant and you being yourself will show that you’re relatable which will keep people interested.

People like posts that are real and that provide value. A few things to ask yourself when posting are:

‘Does this provide value to my audience?’

‘If I were following my business, would I resonate with what this post provides?’

Nothing good comes easy

Running a small business is hard at times.

It can leave us feeling like we’re not good enough but I can tell you, that something inspired you to start a business and you followed that inspiration so please don’t give up.

I think a lot of new business owners come into it thinking that it’s easy and let me tell you, it’s not. It takes a lot of time and a lot of hard work. No small business owner has gotten where they are today by sitting back and letting search engines and social media do the work for them.

If you want to start a small business, you need to be ready to dedicate a lot of time to it. You will grow, but again, it takes time.

Your business is a piece of you

Your business reflects you, no one else. It’s this individuality that draws people to check out your offering.

One thing I love about life is that we are always learning and that’s always the case with owning a business. We never stop learning and improving.

Instead of saying:

“No one purchases what I’m offering because it’s not as good as others.” Say, “How can I improve my marketing?”

“I’ll never have as many followers as them.” Say, “I know it’ll take hard work, but I can grow my audience if I put my mind to it.”

Positivity and a willingness to learn and grow go a long way in the success of your business.

Don’t forget to celebrate your wins, no, matter how small.

Small wins add up to big successes over time. Instead of focusing on what others are doing, take a moment to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. This habit can boost your morale and keep you motivated.

Remember, your journey is unique, and so is your business. Focus on your path, celebrate your progress, and watch your small business thrive.