Is Your Social Media Relationship Toxic? Elyse Fox Shares Advice on Ending Comparison - Dear Media

Embracing Growth and Compassion in Entrepreneurship

Comparison is often seen as the thief of joy, especially for those navigating the challenging path of entrepreneurship. It's easy to look at others and feel like you're falling short, but for Elyse Fox, founder of the mental health platform Sad Girls Club, this struggle has been a significant part of her journey.

Fox, who is also a filmmaker and writer, has experienced the pitfalls of comparison firsthand. She built her nonprofit organization, Sad Girls Club, to provide resources and support for girls dealing with mental illness. In an interview with Les Alfred, host of She’s So Lucky, she shared her personal experiences with depression, the challenges of comparison, and the importance of seeking help.

The Journey into Entrepreneurship

Before founding Sad Girls Club, Fox worked in the film and production industry for many years. However, she felt unfulfilled and decided to take a leap of faith by leaving her stable job to start her own business. Her first venture, Produced By Girls, was a film production company focused on creating content by and for women.

The success of Produced By Girls inspired Fox to address her own mental health struggles. This led to the creation of Sad Girls Club, which began with a short film titled Conversations With Friends. The film explored her experience with depression, highlighting that it doesn't have a visible face and that people can be struggling without anyone knowing.

The Importance of Asking for Help

Running a nonprofit while managing personal mental health is no small task. Fox realized she needed to let go of her ego and ask for help from her community. She found support from other women who were willing to assist her, which was crucial for the growth of Sad Girls Club.

"Sometimes, I had to take my ego out of the work I was doing," Fox explained. "If I want to heal all these women and heal my community, I was going to need a lot of support. I needed backup."

Asking for help starts with being clear about what you need. Fox emphasized the importance of providing a specific call-to-action when reaching out to others. When someone offers help with a clear directive, it makes it easier for them to contribute effectively.

Avoiding the Comparison Trap

For entrepreneurs, defining success on your own terms is essential. Fox encourages individuals to look inward for their markers of success rather than comparing themselves to others. "We play the comparison game, but that’s their version of success," she said. "You shouldn’t mirror your success off someone else. They can be inspiration or even someone to uplift you as you are growing."

To combat feelings of comparison, Fox uses tools like muting social media accounts that trigger self-doubt. She also emphasizes the importance of filling her time with activities that bring her joy, whether it's going for a walk, exercising, or simply enjoying a TikTok binge. By disconnecting from work mode, she focuses on mental well-being and personal happiness.

Tips for Personal Growth as a Leader

Fox believes that successful entrepreneurs should step outside their comfort zones and explore new opportunities. "Women often fall into the trap of doing one thing, and it becoming who you are," she noted. "We are not a monolith. We do so many other things in our lives."

For Fox, success is about doing what's best for her well-being. She encourages others to embrace their multifaceted identities and not limit themselves to a single role. By focusing on personal growth and self-care, entrepreneurs can build more meaningful and sustainable ventures.

In a world where comparison is rampant, Fox's journey serves as a reminder that true success comes from within. By embracing compassion, seeking support, and staying true to oneself, entrepreneurs can navigate their paths with confidence and resilience.