Why Summer Makes Comparison So Much Worse (and How to Protect Your Peace)

Summer is meant to be a season of joy, long days, lighter evenings, garden BBQs, and maybe even a holiday or two. But for many of us, it’s also a time when comparison quietly flares up.

You might notice it while scrolling social media, seeing people on dreamy getaways or families smiling under golden sunsets. You might feel it trying on last year’s clothes, or hearing about someone else’s packed summer plans.

Suddenly, your own life can feel... lacking.

As a counsellor (and as a human), I see how easily this happens and how harshly we judge ourselves because of it. So, if you’ve found yourself comparing lately, you’re definitely not alone. I love getting away for a week in the summer. There’s something about a change of scenery, a different pace, that feels so good. But honestly? I’m always happy to come home. I’m lucky, I truly love being in my home. That’s peace to me. Because of that, I notice that comparison to others’ holidays, houses, or lifestyles has less weight. I’m genuinely grateful for what I have, and for simple things like being content in my own company, even doing absolutely nothing. When you reach a place like this, where your own life, your own space, your own rhythms feel enough, comparison naturally declines. It doesn’t mean I never compare (I’m human, too). But I’ve learned how rich it is to be deeply okay with your own life but it definitely doesn’t come without work and reflection.

Let’s explore why this season makes comparison worse, and some gentle ways you can protect your peace.

Why comparison spikes in summer

1. Social media is louder than ever

When the sun’s out, so are the cameras. Holiday selfies, poolside drinks, festival outfits — your feed becomes a stream of curated, filtered moments that look effortlessly happy.

And even though you know it’s a highlight reel, your brain can still whisper:

“Why isn’t my life like that?”

“Why don’t I look that good in shorts?”

“Why am I just here at home while everyone else is living?”

2. Body image worries show up more

For many people, summer can be tough on self-esteem. Warmer weather often means less clothing, which can trigger body insecurities.

You might find yourself comparing your body to friends, strangers, influencers, or even to an old version of yourself. It’s exhausting, and it pulls your focus away from simply enjoying your life.

3. FOMO is real

Longer days often come with more invitations and social events. If you’re already feeling low, lonely or burnt out, seeing everyone else out together can amplify feelings of missing out or being left behind.

It can also create pressure to do things you might not actually want to do, just to keep up.

How to cope with comparison this summer

Notice when it happens

Comparison thrives in the shadows.

When you shine a light on it, it loses some power.

Try simply saying to yourself:

“I’m comparing right now. That’s okay, I’m human. But this doesn’t have to decide my worth.”

Limit the scroll

Pay attention to how you feel after being online. Do you feel inspired and uplifted, or does it leave you tense, self-critical, or lacking?

If it’s the latter, it might be time to take a break. Mute or unfollow accounts that trigger the urge to compare. Remember: you’re allowed to curate your feed to protect your mental health.

Ground yourself in your own life

Ask yourself: What actually matters to me this summer?

Maybe it’s quiet mornings with coffee in the garden, reading a book you’ve been putting off, or spontaneous local adventures.

Your summer doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be meaningful.

Practice gratitude- gently

This isn’t about ignoring hard feelings, but about widening your focus. Alongside the ache of comparison, can you also notice something small you’re grateful for?

Maybe it’s the way your dog greets you at the door, or how good cold water tastes on a hot day. Tiny moments of appreciation anchor you to the present.

Talk kindly to yourself

Try countering comparison thoughts with compassion.

Instead of:

“I’ll never look like them.”

try:

“My body carries me through my life. It doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.”

Instead of:

“Everyone else is happier than me.”

try:

“I don’t see their private struggles. I’m allowed to be on my own path.”

Share how you feel

Comparison thrives in silence. Talking to someone you trust, or a therapist, can help you unpack deeper beliefs about worth and value.

Often, comparison is tied to old stories: “I’m only enough if I achieve, if I look a certain way, if people approve of me.” Therapy is a safe place to gently rewrite those narratives.

A final note: your summer, your way

Summer is just a season; it isn’t a test you have to pass.

It doesn’t matter if you spend it exploring faraway beaches or simply enjoying slower days close to home.

Your life doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be beautiful.

You don’t have to do more, be more, or look different to be worthy.

You are already enough. Exactly as you are, right now.