We know you know this, but an important reminder: comparison is a thief of joy, a guaranteed way to make yourself feel rubbish, and generally a complete waste of time. No good can be found in assessing yourself against someone else’s best, most visible bits and burying yourself in ‘shoulds’.

“Comparing yourself to others, whether through social media or in person, can negatively impact your mood,” Santos explains. “To build lasting happiness, stop these comparisons and reset your reference points.

“Focus on your own progress and achievements instead of measuring success against others. Set personal goals that reflect your values and priorities, and celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. By shifting your perspective from external comparisons to internal growth, you cultivate a sense of contentment and joy that is resilient to external pressures. Remember, happiness is about your journey, not how it stacks up to others.”

5 science-backed habits that will actually make you happier