An essential component of an effective personal development plan and strategy is surveying the “landscape” looking for growth opportunities.  We scan to find value we can integrate into our own lives and model for others.

But the truth is that most of us are doing this even apart from any strategy for personal growth.  It can be difficult to avoid what is around us when information is pushed at us from every direction using every available media and means.

So what happens when we measure ourselves based on what we see in others? It depends. This kind of comparative approach can serve us by pushing us to stretch ourselves, or limit us if we fail to recognize the good in what we already have or believe something is beyond our reach.

Like anything though, we need more than platitudes to create change.  We need to have a personal strategy that allows us to process information in a way that generates positive change for ourselves and, as a result, for others.

Here are three responses to consider when you stumble upon that “greener grass”:

1. Remember that not everything is about you or for you.  Sometimes it is best to be the audience and congratulate the other gardener!
2. Whenever you feel a response that has an edge of personal dissatisfaction in it, pause and name 10 blessings in your life.  Focus on your good.  Keep perspective.
3. Remind yourself that there is NOTHING you cannot have if you are willing to pay the price.  The price is rarely $$’s.  It’s almost always about our daily life and the disciplines we honor.

Is the newest object of your desire worth the price?  If so – claim it.  If not, see option 1.

Final thought:  Remember that every time you see something that seems to be “greener” that there are others looking at you and seeing “greener”, too!