When preparing for highly competitive exams like JEE or NEET, it’s common for students—and sometimes their parents—to fall into the trap of comparing performance with peers. Whether it’s test scores, ranks, or progress in mock exams, this habit often becomes part of the preparation journey. But despite how widespread it may be, comparison is rarely helpful.
Every student is different—each with their own learning pace, strengths, and struggles. What works for one might not work for another. Instead of pushing you forward, comparison often creates unnecessary pressure, self-doubt, and distraction from your personal goals.
Whether you’re aiming for IIT or a top medical college, here’s why comparing yourself with others throughout the coaching phase is not only unproductive—but sometimes even damaging to your success
1. It Builds Excessive Pressure
Even with the best intentions, the mindset of “beating” everyone ahead in the race can unknowingly burden you. When students begin measuring their progress solely by where others stand, they feel compelled to do more—study longer, revise harder, push themselves beyond limits. This constant chase, while appearing productive, builds overwhelming pressure that can take a toll on mental well-being and long-term focus.
2. It Can Lead to Feelings of Depression
Seeing classmates or coaching peers performing better can be hard to digest, especially when you’re giving it your all but not seeing equal results. Instead of analysing what they’re doing differently or identifying personal gaps to work on, many students internalise failure and begin to feel they’re not good enough. Over time, this mindset can spiral into low mood, self-doubt, or even depression—none of which are helpful when aiming to crack one of the toughest exams in the country.
3. It Distracts from Your Real Goal
Every aspirant enters the JEE or NEET journey with one goal to secure a seat in a reputed institution and shape a successful future. But when comparison creeps in, focus starts to shift. Instead of staying committed to your own learning path, your attention drifts towards what others are doing—how many hours they’re studying, which test series they’ve joined, or how many questions they got right in a mock exam. This distraction distances you from your unique improvement areas and slows your real progress.
4. It Can Kill Motivation
While competition can spark motivation, constant comparison often does the opposite. Watching others succeed might leave you feeling hurt, insecure, or even insulted—especially if you believe you’re working just as hard. Over time, these emotions can chip away at your inner drive, leaving you demotivated and doubtful about your ability to succeed.
5. It Reduces Your Chances of Success
Contrary to popular belief, comparison rarely improves performance. In fact, it tends to damage self-confidence, blur your focus, and sap the joy out of learning. Even students with strong potential may see their performance dip simply because they allowed comparison to take control. Rather than building you up, it often makes you feel like you’re always falling short—when in reality, your progress might just be unfolding at its own pace.
A Better Alternative Focus on Inspiration, Not Comparison
Instead of comparing yourself to others, try drawing inspiration from them. Learn from their discipline, observe their techniques, and apply what suits your style. Follow success stories to stay motivated, and surround yourself with encouragement—not competition. Remember, this journey is yours. You don’t have to be ahead of others—just ahead of where you were yesterday.
