Why Comparison Is Common in the IB Programme
The IB Diploma Programme is intense. With its mix of high-stakes assessments, grade boundaries, and constant deadlines, it’s easy to start comparing your performance to your peers.
Why comparison happens:
- Everyone takes the same subjects in close-knit cohorts
- Internal assessments and predicted grades get discussed openly
- Social media amplifies highlights and academic “wins”
- Group chats and school culture can feel like constant benchmarks
But while some comparison is natural, too much of it can be harmful.
How Comparison Affects Your Mental Health and Grades
When you compare yourself frequently, it can distort your self-image and harm your motivation.
Negative impacts include:
- Feeling like you’re never doing “enough”
- Imposter syndrome, even if your grades are strong
- Over-fixation on grades over learning
- Burnout from overworking or trying to “catch up”
- Resentment or distance from friends due to academic envy
This emotional drain can lead to decreased focus, procrastination, and even mental health challenges like anxiety or depression.
Recognize That Everyone Has a Different Starting Point
Here’s the truth: you don’t see the full story behind anyone’s success.
Some students may have:
- Private tutors or family support
- More free time because of fewer responsibilities
- Natural aptitude in certain subjects
- Different goals (not everyone is aiming for a 45)
Remind yourself that your journey is yours alone. Comparing your “chapter 2” to someone else’s “chapter 10” isn’t fair or helpful.
Shift from Comparison to Inspiration
Instead of seeing other people’s success as a threat, view it as proof of what’s possible.
How to make the shift:
- Admire, don’t envy—ask, “What can I learn from them?”
- Celebrate others’ wins—this reduces resentment and builds community
- Use success stories as fuel, not pressure
- Set personal learning goals instead of trying to “beat” others
When you focus on inspiration, you grow with others, not against them.
Reframe Your Goals Around Growth, Not Perfection
Chasing perfect scores or top ranks often leads to disappointment—even for high achievers. Instead, focus on progress, not perfection.
Try these goal shifts:
- “I want to improve my Math IA clarity” instead of “I need a 7”
- “I’ll revise biology three times this week” rather than “I need to be better than everyone else”
- “I’m proud I managed my TOK presentation calmly” even if it wasn’t flawless
Growth-based goals lead to real, lasting confidence.
Create Your Own Definition of Success in IB
What matters most to you? A university offer? Managing stress better? Getting through TOK without tears?
Success could mean:
- Academic improvement (from a 4 to a 6)
- Emotional resilience (less anxiety before tests)
- Time management (sticking to a study plan)
- Enjoying learning again
Your success doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s—and that’s a good thing.
Build Daily Habits That Boost Self-Worth
You don’t need a major life overhaul. Tiny, consistent habits help you feel grounded.
Self-worth habits to try:
- Gratitude journaling – write 3 things you're proud of each night
- Celebrate small wins – even finishing a paragraph of your EE counts
- Limit social media and grade gossip – mute or step away when needed
- Use affirmations – “I’m making progress” or “My effort is valid”
Self-worth grows when you notice your effort—not just your outcomes.
Seek Support When Comparison Becomes Overwhelming
If you’re stuck in a cycle of self-doubt or envy, you’re not alone.
Reach out to:
- Teachers or IB coordinators who understand the pressure
- School counselors or mental health services for deeper support
- Friends or classmates to create peer support or study circles
- Online communities focused on growth, not pressure (e.g., RevisionDojo)
Vulnerability can build connection. Others are likely feeling the same.
FAQs on Comparison and Self-Esteem in IB
Q1: Why do I always feel behind, even when I’m doing fine?
Because IB is competitive and fast-paced. Take time to reflect on your own growth—you might be progressing more than you realize.
Q2: How do I stop obsessing over grades?
Set process-based goals (e.g., “study 3x a week”), and reflect on what you learned—not just what you scored.
Q3: Is it okay to unfollow classmates on social media?
Yes. If someone’s content makes you feel less than, it’s healthy to take a break.
Q4: What if my parents compare me to others?
Have an honest conversation. Share how it makes you feel and ask for support instead of pressure.
Q5: Can journaling help with comparison?
Absolutely. It clears your mind, boosts self-awareness, and helps you reframe your thoughts.
Q6: Is it normal to feel jealous of classmates sometimes?
Totally. What matters is how you respond—turn jealousy into curiosity or motivation.
