expectations

“Comparison is the thief of joy!” In part one we highlighted that measuring ourselves against others can rob us of happiness and satisfaction. For educators, this principle resonates deeply. The classroom, a microcosm of society, is filled with diverse students, each with unique abilities, backgrounds and potentials. Yet, the pressure to compare—be it between students, schools or even teachers themselves—can erode morale, hinder progress and stifle creativity. Recognising and addressing this tendency is essential for fostering a supportive and fulfilling educational environment.

The phrase “comparison is the thief of joy,” attributed to Theodore Roosevelt, is a poignant reminder of how measuring ourselves against others can rob us of happiness and satisfaction. According to author Morgan Housel, your happiness depends on your expectations more than anything else. According to Housel the common storyline of history is: Things get better, wealth increases, technology brings new efficiencies and medicines save lives. The quality of life goes up. But people’s expectations then rise by just as much, if not more.