It’s easy for us to become disappointed with ourselves. And although we may not share this with others, whom among us haven’t, from time-to-time, compared ourselves to others — whether it is income, looks, house size, number of cars or whatever else we deem worthy of comparison.

These are worthless, pointless comparisons because there’s always somebody richer and better looking, living in what looks like a palace three times the size of your place, with much fancier and more expensive cars lining the driveway.

An exception to this is dissatisfaction based on a sensible comparison, one that acts as a motivator providing insight and direction on how to get better.

So step 1 is to be clear in your head about the change you want to make, and then where warranted, make a comparison that can work in your favor.

If your website isn’t generating the responses you’re seeking, take a look at what a successful colleague or competitor is doing and determine what you can take away from it.

If you’ve done a few talks and received blank stares and inauspicious evaluations, video someone who’s successfully doing something similar, study their style, how they work the crowd and determine what you’re missing.

Comparisons that work help you find the fuel to attain your goals, so go for it. As long as they’re your goals and not somebody else’s.