Belva Mälik

Comparison is a natural part of human nature. We look at the world around us, observe others, and inevitably measure ourselves against them. In the age of social media, where the highlight reels of people’s lives are constantly on display, this tendency can easily spiral into a cycle of envy and self-doubt. But what if we shifted our focus entirely? What if, instead of looking over the proverbial fence to see if someone else’s grass is greener, we dedicated ourselves to nurturing our own?

The truth is, the grass is greener where you water it. This simple yet profound idea carries a powerful reminder. The time and energy we spend tending to our own lives are what create growth and beauty. When we are constantly distracted by how others are living, we drain ourselves of the energy needed to cultivate something meaningful for ourselves. Comparison is not just unproductive. It is a thief. It steals joy, peace, and progress by redirecting our focus away from what truly matters, our own journey.

When you are busy nurturing your own grass, there is no room for comparison. You are too engaged in planting seeds, pulling weeds, and watching your efforts bloom into something uniquely yours. This is not just about avoiding envy. It is about fully embracing the process of growth. Growth takes time, effort, and patience. It requires you to show up consistently, even when the results are not immediately visible. The act of nurturing your own grass becomes a practice in self-discipline and self-love.

It is tempting to glance over at someone else’s lawn and wonder why it looks so vibrant. But appearances are deceiving. That lush, green grass you are envying might be astroturf. You do not know the full story behind what you see. Maybe they have invested years of work, or maybe they have simply been good at hiding the struggles beneath the surface. Either way, their lawn has no bearing on yours. Your path, your process, and your progress are entirely your own.

When you let go of the need to compare, you open yourself to a deeper connection with your own life. You begin to notice the small victories, the way your efforts are paying off, the satisfaction of seeing growth where there was once barren ground. You start to appreciate the beauty of what you are building, not because it outshines someone else’s, but because it reflects your hard work and authenticity.

The key to happiness and fulfillment is not found in measuring yourself against others. It lies in pouring your energy into what matters most to you. It is about recognizing that your worth is not defined by how your life stacks up to someone else’s, but by the care and intention you bring to your own. When you focus on creating something meaningful for yourself, you stop chasing external validation. Instead, you find contentment in the process and pride in the results.

At the end of the day, what truly matters is not whether your grass looks greener than your neighbor’s. It is whether you have poured your heart into making it your own. True fulfillment does not come from comparison. It comes from the joy of building something authentic and true to you. So stop looking over the fence. Pick up the hose, pull some weeds, and start watering your own grass. In time, you will realize that the beauty you have been searching for was within your reach all along.