Podcast Summary: The $100 MBA Show – Episode MBA2651 Q&A Wednesday: How Do I Stop Comparing Myself to Everyone Online?

Introduction

In Episode MBA2651 of The $100 MBA Show, host Omar Zenhom tackles a pervasive issue faced by entrepreneurs and individuals alike: the struggle to stop comparing oneself to others online. Released on July 16, 2025, this episode delves deep into the psychological impacts of social media, the often misleading nature of online personas, and practical strategies to overcome the detrimental habit of comparison. Drawing from over two decades of entrepreneurial experience, Omar provides actionable insights to help listeners maintain focus and foster personal growth without falling into the comparison trap.

1. Understanding the Comparison Trap

Timestamp [01:02]

Omar opens the discussion by acknowledging the common feelings of inadequacy that arise from scrolling through social media. He emphasizes that many people perceive others as more successful, leading to self-doubt and decreased motivation.

Omar Zenhom: "Have you ever scrolled through social and suddenly feel like your life, your business, your progress, just isn't enough? Yeah, me too." (01:15)

2. The Highlight Reel Illusion

Timestamp [01:45]

Omar highlights the discrepancy between online portrayals and reality. He explains that social media is often a curated "highlight reel," showcasing only the best moments and achievements, while concealing the struggles and failures.

Omar Zenhom: "Social media is a highlight reel. It's not reality. It's not the truth. At least it's not the whole truth." (02:10)

He shares personal anecdotes, mentioning conversations with influencers who appear successful online but face significant challenges in their businesses and personal lives.

Omar Zenhom: "I've spoken to influencers that are crushing it online who couldn't make payroll. I've seen viral creators who secretly hate their business." (03:00)

3. The Psychological Impact of Comparison

Timestamp [04:05]

Omar delves into the negative effects of constant comparison, including reduced joy, increased insecurity, and hindered progress. He explains that comparing oneself to others shifts focus away from personal goals and fosters a zero-sum mentality where one believes that another's success diminishes their own chances.

Omar Zenhom: "Comparing your truth to the fiction that you see online... turns inspiration even into insecurity." (04:30)

4. Overcoming the Comparison Habit

Timestamp [05:20]

Transitioning from the problem to solutions, Omar offers strategic advice to help listeners break free from the cycle of comparison:

a. Turn Envy into Research

Omar Zenhom: "Turn that comparison into improvement. Learn from something that you see that is great." (05:45)

He encourages listeners to analyze what others are doing well and apply those insights to enhance their own businesses or personal endeavors.

b. Make Progress Visible to Yourself

Omar Zenhom: "Create what I call a wins folder... every win, big or small, you put it in the folder." (06:05)

By documenting achievements, individuals can remind themselves of their progress, counteracting the negative feelings triggered by comparison.

c. Design Your Feed

Omar Zenhom: "Be ruthless about how you use social media. This is mental hygiene." (06:20)

He advises curating social media feeds to include only those who inspire and support personal growth, eliminating sources of negativity and unnecessary competition.

5. Personal Experience and Real-World Application

Timestamp [06:50]

Omar shares his own entrepreneurial journey, particularly the launch of his software company, Webinar Ninja. Despite facing numerous competitors, he focused on improving his product rather than being discouraged by others' successes.

Omar Zenhom: "When I launched Webinar Ninja... I said, great, this market is proven. Let me make something better for my people today." (06:55)

This mindset not only helped his business thrive but also reinforced the importance of staying focused and not getting sidetracked by external comparisons.

6. Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Timestamp [07:25]

Omar wraps up the episode by reassuring listeners that they are not alone in their struggles with comparison. He emphasizes the importance of trusting one's unique path and maintaining consistency despite external distractions.

Omar Zenhom: "Your path is meant for you. This is your thing. You don't need to win faster like them. You're going to win in your own unique way." (07:30)

He motivates listeners to protect their minds, guard their energy, and persistently show up for their goals, highlighting that success comes from long-term dedication and the right mental environment.

Conclusion

In this insightful episode, Omar Zenhom effectively addresses the challenge of avoiding detrimental comparisons in the age of social media. By dissecting the illusion of online success, examining the psychological ramifications, and providing practical strategies, he equips listeners with the tools needed to maintain focus, foster personal growth, and achieve business success without falling prey to the comparison trap.

Listeners are encouraged to implement the discussed tactics—such as turning envy into research, documenting personal wins, and meticulously designing their social media feeds—to cultivate a healthier mindset and a more productive approach to their entrepreneurial journeys.

Notable Quotes:

• "Social media is a highlight reel. It's not reality." — Omar Zenhom (02:10)
• "Turn that comparison into improvement." — Omar Zenhom (05:45)
• "Your path is meant for you. You don't need to win faster like them." — Omar Zenhom (07:30)

For more practical business lessons and to subscribe to The $100 MBA Show, visit 100mba.net.