The thief of joy: In Community #26

Comparison is the thief of joy.

You’ve probably heard this before. But how often do you think about how it comes to life in what you do – and how to actively grab that joy right back?

Last week, I wrote about feeling smart and un-smart. It’s not our natural vibe to surround ourselves with people who intimidate us. But when we do, it can inspire real positive action.

Here’s the problem though.

It can also inspire comparison and feeling like we’re not far enough along toward our goals. I’ve definitely had moments when I consider how I can get farther faster, just to catch up with people who seem to have achieved more than me.

👉🏽 Did I start too late? 

👉🏽 Am I too old for this? 

👉🏽 How can I catch up?

It’s also natural to feel like others are looking at us and thinking that we’re behind. But remember this.

You are where you are for a reason. And that reason isn’t always because of you. We don't all start in the same place or with the same access.

Especially those of us from historically excluded communities. The climb is often steeper and longer - and with twists at every turn.

Take this as your opportunity to pause and be grateful for how far you’ve come – and for everything you’ve overcome. 

That gratitude will grab that joy right back.

And while you’re doing that, this week’s Need to Know might give you a few more reasons to find joy, from bringing visibility to someone who’s brought visibility to Asian Americans, to the latest from faves like Issa Rae and Keke Palmer, to becoming a certified cycle starter.

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Need To Know

💥 ‘Photographic Justice’ is telling Corky Lee’s story. He spent decades bringing visibility to the Asian American community – and now we see him through a new lens.

💥 This Brooklyn-based baker is a generational cycle starter. She’s making all kinds of food more accessible.

💥 Keke Palmer and SZA are going to be in a comedy produced by Issa Rae. That’s it, that’s the sentence.