David Mayer on the benefits of social comparison in Fast Company
June 17, 2016
In David Mayer‘s latest Fast Company column, “You Should Probably Compare Yourself To Others More, Not Less,” he explains how social comparisons can be beneficial to personal growth.
While upward social comparisons are often linked with negative emotions, Mayer demonstrates that the norm of reciprocity can actually be used as leverage in professional development. “Mutually reveling in one another’s good news can help your reputation and improve your personal relationships, both important ingredients in moving ahead professionally,” he writes.
Mayer is an associate professor of management and organizations and a member of the Center for Positive Organizations core faculty team.