How to Stop Comparing Yourself and Start Your Health Journey

Komal Tanna
Jul 6
3 min read

The Starting Point

There’s always a trigger inside us that sparks the desire for change. It might be a blood test result that raises concern, a striking transformation on social media, or the urge to feel like your old self again after pregnancy, often accompanied by the pressure to “bounce back”. That lingering question creeps in:

“If they can do it, why can’t I?”

Comparison – The Thief of Joy

When that question lingers, it’s important to pause and ask:

Where is this coming from?

Is it an external trigger, wanting to look and feel like someone else? Or is it internally rooted in a deeper understanding of your why?

There’s nothing wrong with finding someone else’s journey inspiring. We need inspiration, but it must be aligned. What do I mean by that?

If you’re in your mid-30s, a mum of two, and working full time, it’s not fair to compare yourself to someone in their mid-20s, at a different hormonal and energetic stage of life, likely with fewer responsibilities.

Look to people who are in a similar life phase. But even then, remember everyone’s circumstances differ. Some have help at home, more flexible work schedules, or simply more time to focus on themselves.

As a nutrition coach, are my meals picture-perfect? No, and they’re not meant to be. I’m not a food blogger or a recipe developer. My job is to teach you how to eat well and build balanced meals that fit your life.

Don’t worry about how someone else’s food looks. Focus on what’s on your plate, and does it nourish you? Do you enjoy it? That’s what matters.

How to Channel That Motivation

It’s time to shift focus inward.

Create your path. Ask yourself:

What do you really want?
What changes do you want to make?
What do you want to feel differently in your life?
What is your why? (Don’t stop at “I want to lose 5 kg”; keep asking why until you reach the root.)

Once you’ve tapped into that deeper motivation, break it down into small, realistic changes.

Start simple. Build momentum. And remember this journey will never be perfect or linear. That’s okay.

Practical Tips to Get Started

Write it down - Sometimes, putting pen to paper brings clarity. I always write down my goals, then block time for them in my calendar.
Plan - I train 4 times a week. Those workouts are scheduled into my diary like meetings. Non-negotiable.
Treat it like any other commitment - Remember, if you can book time in your calendar for a medical appointment, a facial, or a social event and you show up for those, you can do the same for your wellbeing. Book that appointment with yourself and commit to showing up.
Track small habits - I use a habit tracker for in my planner.
- Workouts
- Steps
- Calories logged
- Mobility
- Padel (if I can find games that week!)