“Comparison is the thief of joy.” –Theodore Roosevelt

Their friendship didn’t start like this.

One was the teacher, the other was learning the business. The collaboration allowed them to soar, grow in their influence, win awards and, most importantly, earn respect for the work they both loved.

Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? It seems like the best a person could expect from an OolaLife: a life rich in field (career), finance, friends and fun. It met three of Oola’s seven key areas in one fell swoop.

Then an OolaBlocker–envy–took its toxic hold, buoyed by fear, anger and, ultimately, self-sabotage. What Theodore Roosevelt called “the thief of joy” doesn’t even begin to touch the path their friendship took. It stomped the life out of the teacher’s world so completely that even decades later, she sat alone during a chance encounter during what should have been a joyous night. She found herself alone and angry as others radiated to her former friend.

Instead of building on the foundation they created together, she had sunk into a deep funk. Her own considerable achievements turned from something to celebrate into a measure of where she stood in comparison to someone else. In her mind, she always fell short.

Are you in a similar position today? Have OolaBlockers stalled your journey to an OolaLife? More importantly, are you ready to recognize envy for what it is? Envy is jealousy taken to a new level. You want what others have, and you don’t want them to have it anymore. Are you ready to change the ending to this story?

It’s possible, you know. You are unique. You are running your own race with God-given gifts that have destined you for greatness.

Is envy holding you back from enjoying the fruits of your own labors? It’s time to reclaim your joy!

Don’t let outside influences define your vision of who you should be and what your life should hold. If you’ve ever had a professional portrait taken, you’ve seen how a photographer can take a raw shot and deftly clear the complexion, erase an extra chin and put a sparkle in your eye. That’s what media feeds us, the glossed-over picture of an inaccessible reality. With the help of your OolaWheel, find where you stand today and determine how you can grow in the direction that will bring out the best possible you.

Instead of envying what others have, learn from them. You're not on this journey alone. Surround yourself with grateful people. Share in their achievements and follow their lead in setting your own goals. Reach out for advice as you find your own niche as you pursue your OolaLife.

Adopt an attitude of gratitude. In the process, you’ll rediscover what makes you special. Begin a Gratitude Journal and look for the blessings you already enjoy, and you’ll be amazed at how many more rise to the surface. Dare to dream. By setting goals in the 7 F's of Oola (fitness, finance, family, field (career), faith, friends and fun), you can turn those dreams into your new reality.

Finally, share the new joy you’ve found. Collaborate, join forces and make good things happen. Be generous in sharing the things that have brought you to this point. Instead of living under a toxic cloud, claim your new life and send out the ripples of joy you’ve found waiting there.

Curious if your life is balanced? Find out with a quick and easy FREE LIFE BALANCE TEST below.