TRANSCRIPT
1. INTRODUCTION TO THE EPISODE
Host Brian: Hello, everyone! Welcome back to English on the Go, where we help you learn everywhere and speak everywhere!
Host Brian: Let me ask you something—have you ever scrolled through social media and thought, ‘Wow, they’ve got it all’? Or maybe you’ve compared your progress to someone else’s and felt a little down? If so, you’re not alone.
Host Brian: Today, we’ll talk about why we compare ourselves to others and, most importantly, how to stop. Along the way, you’ll learn new vocabulary, idioms, and phrases to express these ideas in English. Let’s dive in!
Host Brian: Before we start the conversation, let’s think about why comparisons happen. Imagine this: you’re scrolling through your favorite social media app, and you see someone’s vacation photos, job promotion, or new car.
Host Brian: It’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind. But why do we feel this way? Is it society, competition, or just human nature? Let’s take a closer look before we hear from today’s guests.
2. PRE-LISTENING QUESTIONS
Host Brian: To get you thinking, here are a few questions. Imagine you’re chatting with a friend about this topic. How would you answer these?
Why do you think people compare themselves to others?
How does comparison affect your mood or confidence?
What do you think helps people stop comparing?
Host Brian: Keep these questions in mind as we jump into today’s conversation.
3. MAIN CONVERSATION
Host Brian: Now, let me introduce today’s guests. First, we have David, a marketing professional who often finds himself comparing his career to his peers. Joining him is Jamie, a life coach who helps people overcome self-doubt and build confidence.
Host Brian: Today, they’ll share their perspectives on why we compare ourselves to others and how to stop this habit. Let’s dive into their conversation!
Host Brian: Welcome, David and Jamie. It’s great to have you both here!
David: Thanks, Brian. I’m excited to be part of this discussion.
Jamie: Me too! I think this is such an important topic.
Host Brian: Absolutely. David, let’s start with you. You mentioned earlier that you often compare yourself to your friends. Can you share more about that?
David: Sure. I work in marketing, and I’ve noticed that a lot of my friends seem to be moving ahead faster than I am. One just got promoted, another started their own business, and I’m still at the same job I’ve had for three years. It feels like I’m stuck while everyone else is thriving.
Jamie: That’s tough, David. But remember, social media and casual conversations often show us the highlight reel of people’s lives, not the full picture.
David: That’s true, but it’s hard not to feel like I’m falling behind when I see their successes.
Host Brian: Jamie, what advice would you give David in this situation?
Jamie: I’d say, first, don’t compare your Chapter 3 to someone else’s Chapter 10. Everyone’s journey is different, and it’s important to focus on running your own race.
David: Run your own race—I like that. But it’s easier said than done. Sometimes I feel like if I’m not ahead, I’m failing.
Jamie: That’s a common feeling, but it’s not true. Think of it this way: comparing yourself to others is like running a marathon while constantly looking sideways. It slows you down. Instead, focus on your own progress, even if it’s small steps.
Host Brian: That’s a great analogy. David, what do you think about that?
David: It makes sense. I guess I need to stop looking sideways and focus on what I’ve achieved.
Jamie: Exactly. And one more thing—practice gratitude. When you focus on what you’re thankful for, it shifts your mindset from scarcity to abundance.
David: I’ve heard about gratitude journals, but I’ve never tried one.
Jamie: They’re great! Even writing down three things you’re grateful for each day can make a big difference.
Host Brian: That’s a great tip, Jamie. I’ve also heard about the importance of celebrating small wins. David, do you do that?
David: Honestly, no. I tend to dismiss my achievements because they feel minor compared to what others are doing.
Jamie: That’s something I’d challenge you to change. Every win, no matter how small, deserves recognition. It builds confidence and momentum.
David: I’ll give it a try. Maybe I’ve been too hard on myself.
Host Brian: That’s a great realization, David. Jamie, do you have any other strategies for breaking the habit of comparison?
Jamie: Yes—limit your exposure to triggers. If social media makes you feel inadequate, take a break or unfollow accounts that don’t make you feel good about yourself.
David: I’ve thought about that, but I worry about missing out on what’s happening.
Jamie: That’s the fear of missing out, or FOMO. But taking care of your mental health is more important than staying updated on everyone else’s life.
Host Brian: Well said. David, what’s one thing you’ll take away from this conversation?
David: I think the idea of running my own race and celebrating small wins really resonates with me. I’ll also try focusing on gratitude.
Jamie: That’s a great start. Remember, it’s a process, not a quick fix. Be kind to yourself along the way.
Host Brian: Fantastic advice, Jamie. And David, I’m sure you’ll make great progress. Thank you both for sharing your insights today!
David: Thanks for having me, Brian.
Jamie: It’s been a pleasure.
Host Brian: And thank you to our listeners for tuning in. Let’s review some of the key words and phrases from today’s discussion!
4. VOCABULARY ANALYSIS
Host Brian: Now, let’s unpack some of the key words and phrases from today’s conversation. Host Brian: These expressions not only help us understand the topic better but are also great for boosting your vocabulary. I’ll explain each one and provide examples to help you use them confidently.
Host Brian: Highlight reel, meaning: A curated version of events showcasing only the best parts, often used to describe what people share on social media. Example: Don’t forget, what you see online is just someone’s highlight reel, not their full reality.
Host Brian: Run your own race, meaning: Focus on your own goals and progress rather than comparing yourself to others. Example: Instead of worrying about what others are doing, I’ve decided to run my own race.
Host Brian: Chapter 3 to someone else’s Chapter 10, meaning: Comparing your starting point or early stages to someone who is much further along in their journey. Example: It’s unfair to compare your Chapter 3 to someone else’s Chapter 10—everyone’s timeline is different.
Host Brian: Falling behind, meaning: Not progressing as quickly as others or as expected. Example: I sometimes feel like I’m falling behind my peers at work.
Host Brian: Gratitude journal, meaning: A notebook where you regularly write down things you’re thankful for. Example: Starting a gratitude journal helped me focus on the positives in my life.
Host Brian: Small wins, meaning: Minor achievements that help build momentum and confidence. Example: Celebrating small wins, like completing a task, can boost your motivation.
Host Brian: Scarcity mindset, meaning: The belief that resources, opportunities, or success are limited. Example: Shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset can transform your outlook on life.
Host Brian: Momentum, meaning: The force that keeps things moving once progress begins. Example: Recognizing my small wins helped me build momentum towards bigger goals.
Host Brian: Fear of missing out (FOMO), meaning: Anxiety that you’re missing out on exciting events or experiences that others are enjoying. Example: Scrolling through social media triggers FOMO, so I’ve started limiting my time online.
Host Brian: Triggers, meaning: Situations, people, or things that provoke an emotional response, often negative. Example: If social media triggers feelings of inadequacy, it’s okay to take a break.
Host Brian: I hope these insights help you better understand the conversation. Try using some of these expressions in your daily life—it’s a great way to practice and make them part of your active vocabulary!
5. POST-LISTENING QUESTIONS
Host Brian: Now, it’s quiz time! Let’s see how much you remember from today’s conversation. Don’t worry, the answers will be revealed at the end of the episode, so stay tuned!
1. What does Jamie mean by the phrase run your own race?
a. Compete with others to win a race.
b. Focus on your own progress instead of comparing yourself to others.
c. Avoid taking part in competitions.
d. Always try to finish first in any situation.
2. What is the purpose of practicing gratitude, according to Jamie?
a. To distract yourself from problems.
b. To make a list of everything you don’t have.
c. To shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance.
d. To impress others with your positive attitude.
3. What advice does Jamie give about social media triggers?
a. Stop using social media completely.
b. Share more positive content to inspire others.
c. Take a break or unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate.
d. Compare yourself to people with fewer achievements.
Host Brian: Think about your answers, and we’ll reveal them at the end of the episode. Keep listening!
6. POST-LISTENING QUESTIONS
Host Brian: Now that you’ve heard the conversation, let’s take a moment to reflect on some questions that might help you think more about the topic and how it applies to your own life. Don’t rush your answers—really think about it!
Host Brian: 1. Have you ever found yourself comparing your achievements or life to someone else’s? What situations tend to trigger this feeling for you?
Hint: Think about your social media use, conversations with friends, or even family gatherings. Are there specific moments when you feel like you’re falling behind?
Host Brian: 2. How do you usually react when you feel like you're not progressing as fast as others? Do you tend to be hard on yourself, or do you celebrate the small steps you’ve taken?
Hint: Reflect on how you treat yourself in challenging situations. Do you show yourself kindness and patience, or do you feel frustrated by your perceived lack of progress?
Host Brian: 3. What are some strategies you can use to stop comparing yourself to others? Could you start by focusing on your own unique journey, practicing gratitude, or limiting exposure to social media?
Hint: Think about one small change you could make to shift your mindset. What would be a realistic step you could start today to improve how you view your own progress?
Host Brian: Take your time to reflect on these questions and see how you can apply some of the strategies we discussed today. It’s a journey, and every step counts!
7. CONCLUSION
Host Brian: Alright, let’s wrap things up with the answers to our quiz. Thank you for staying with us until the end!
Host Brian: Quiz Answer Reveal:
What does Jamie mean by the phrase run your own race?
Answer: b. Focus on your own progress instead of comparing yourself to others.
What is the purpose of practicing gratitude, according to Jamie?
Answer: c. To shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance.
What advice does Jamie give about social media triggers?
Answer: c. Take a break or unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate.
Host Brian: Great job if you got them all right! If not, don’t worry, keep practicing and you’ll get there.
Host Brian: Remember, you can find a free PDF vocabulary list from this episode in the show notes, so you can review these words and phrases at your own pace.
Host Brian: Thank you so much for tuning in today. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to ‘English on the Go’ and join us next time for more tips on improving your English and your life. Remember, you can learn everywhere and speak everywhere!
Host Brian: Take care, and keep learning!
VOCABULARY SUMMARY:
EXERCISE
EXERCISE 1: Fill in the Blanks
Instruction: Listen to the conversation and fill in the blanks with the appropriate words
Brian: Welcome, David and Jamie. It’s great to (1)_______ you both here!
David: Thanks, Brian. I’m (2)_______ to be part of this discussion.
Jamie: Me too! I (3)_______ this is such an important topic.
Brian: Absolutely. David, let’s start with (4)_______. You mentioned earlier that you often (5)_______ yourself to your friends. Can you (6)_______ more about that?
David: Sure. I work in (7)_______, and I’ve noticed that a lot (8)_______ my friends seem to be moving (9)_______ faster than I am. One just (10)_______ promoted, another started their own business, and (11)_______ still at the same job I’ve had (12)_______ three years. It feels like I’m (13)_______ while everyone else is thriving.
Jamie: That’s tough, David. But remember, social (14)_______ and casual conversations often show us (15)_______ highlight reel of people’s lives, not (16)_______ full picture.
David: That’s true, but it’s hard (17)_______ to feel like I’m falling behind (18)_______ I see their successes.
Brian: Jamie, what advice would you give (19)_______ in this situation?
Jamie: I’d say, first, don’t (20)_______ your Chapter 3 to someone else’s (21)_______ 10. Everyone’s journey is different, and (22)_______ important to focus on running your own (23)_______.
David: Run your own race—I like (24)_______. But it’s easier said than done. (25)_______ I feel like if I’m not (26)_______, I’m failing.
Jamie: That’s a common feeling, but it’s not (27)_______. Think of it this way: comparing yourself (28)_______ others is like running a marathon while (29)_______ looking sideways. It slows you down. Instead, (30)_______ on your own progress, even if it’s (31)_______ steps.
Brian: That’s a great analogy. David, what (32)_______ you think about that?
David: It makes sense. I guess I (33)_______ to stop looking sideways and focus on (34)_______ I’ve achieved.
Jamie: Exactly. And one more thing—practice (35)_______. When you focus on what you’re (36)_______ for, it shifts your mindset from scarcity (37)_______ abundance.
David: I’ve heard about gratitude journals, but I’ve (38)_______ tried one.
Jamie: They’re great! Even writing down three things (39)_______ grateful for each day can make a (40)_______ difference.
Brian: That’s a great tip, Jamie. I’ve also (41)_______ about the importance of celebrating small (42)_______. David, do you do that?
David: Honestly, no. I tend to dismiss my (43)_______ because they feel minor compared to what (44)_______ are doing.
Jamie: That’s something I’d challenge you to (45)_______. Every win, no matter how small, (46)_______ recognition. It builds confidence and momentum.
David: I’ll give it a try. Maybe (47)_______ been too hard on myself.
Brian: That’s a great realization, David. Jamie, do (48)_______ have any other strategies for breaking (49)_______ habit of comparison?
Jamie: Yes—limit your exposure to triggers. If social (50)_______ makes you feel inadequate, take a break (51)_______ unfollow accounts that don’t make you (52)_______ good about yourself.
David: I’ve thought about that, but I worry (53)_______ missing out on what’s happening.
Jamie: That’s the fear of missing out, or (54)_______. But taking care of your mental health (55)_______ more important than staying updated on everyone (56)_______ life.
Brian: Well said. David, what’s one thing you’ll (57)_______ away from this conversation?
David: I think the idea of running my (58)_______ race and celebrating small wins really resonates (59)_______ me. I’ll also try focusing on (60)_______.
Jamie: That’s a great start. Remember, it’s a (61)_______, not a quick fix. Be kind to (62)_______ along the way.
Brian: Fantastic advice, Jamie. And David, I’m sure (63)_______ make great progress. Thank you both for (64)_______ your insights today!
David: Thanks for having me, Brian.
Jamie: It’s been a pleasure.
Brian: And thank you to our (65)_______ for tuning in. Let’s review some (66)_______ the key words and phrases from today’s (67)_______!
1 . have
2 . excited
3 . think
4 . you
5 . compare
6 . share
7 . marketing
8 . of
9 . ahead
10 . got
11 . I'm
12 . for
13 . stuck
14 . media
15 . the
16 . the
17 . not
18 . when
19 . David
20 . compare
21 . Chapter
22 . it's
23 . race
24 . that
25 . Sometimes
26 . ahead
27 . TRUE
28 . to
29 . constantly
30 . focus
31 . small
32 . do
33 . need
34 . what
35 . gratitude
36 . thankful
37 . to
38 . never
39 . you're
40 . big
41 . heard
42 . wins
43 . achievements
44 . others
45 . change
46 . deserves
47 . I've
48 . you
49 . the
50 . media
51 . or
52 . feel
53 . about
54 . FOMO
55 . is
56 . else's
57 . take
58 . own
59 . with
60 . gratitude
61 . process
62 . yourself
63 . you'll
64 . sharing
65 . listeners
66 . of
67 . discussion
EXERCISE 2: True, False, Not Given
Instruction: Read each statement carefully and mark it as True, False, or Not Given based on the conversation.
David feels stuck in his career because he hasn’t been promoted in three years.
Jamie believes social media often gives an accurate and full picture of people’s lives.
Brian suggests that David should quit his job to focus on personal achievements.
Jamie advises David to compare his progress to that of his friends.
David likes the analogy of running a marathon to describe self-comparison.
Jamie suggests gratitude can help shift one’s mindset from scarcity to abundance.
David has already tried keeping a gratitude journal but found it ineffective.
Jamie encourages David to celebrate even small wins to build confidence.
David decides to limit his social media use to avoid feelings of inadequacy.
Brian ends the discussion by thanking David and Jamie for their contributions.
1 . TRUE
2 . FALSE
3 . Not Given
4 . FALSE
5 . TRUE
6 . TRUE
7 . FALSE
8 . TRUE
9 . Not Given
10 . TRUE
EXERCISE 3: Multiple Choice Questions
Instruction: Choose the correct answer for each question based on the information from the conversation.
Why does David feel stuck in his career?
A. He dislikes his job.
B. His friends seem to be progressing faster than him.
C. He doesn’t enjoy working in marketing.
D. He hasn’t received good feedback from his boss.What does Jamie suggest to help David stop comparing himself to others?
A. Follow more successful people on social media.
B. Focus on running his own race and celebrate small wins.
C. Talk to his friends about their achievements.
D. Change his career path.According to Jamie, what can practicing gratitude help with?
A. Avoiding social media.
B. Improving professional skills.
C. Changing a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset.
D. Becoming more competitive.What does David think about gratitude journals?
A. He thinks they are too time-consuming.
B. He’s heard of them but hasn’t tried one.
C. He believes they won’t help with his situation.
D. He finds them unnecessary.What does Jamie recommend doing if social media becomes a trigger?
A. Avoid using it completely.
B. Unfollow accounts that don’t promote positivity.
C. Spend more time on social media to adjust.
D. Create a new profile with only close friends.Why does Jamie emphasize celebrating small wins?
A. It can help build momentum and confidence.
B. It’s a way to compete with others.
C. It eliminates the need for gratitude journals.
D. It prevents feelings of failure.What fear does David express about limiting his social media use?
A. Losing his followers.
B. Missing out on important updates.
C. Feeling more isolated.
D. Forgetting his own achievements.How does Brian describe the advice Jamie provided?
A. Unnecessary but interesting.
B. Practical and helpful.
C. Complex and difficult to follow.
D. Incomplete and vague.What does David plan to do after the conversation?
A. Quit social media entirely.
B. Focus on gratitude and celebrate small wins.
C. Start a new career in marketing.
D. Take Jamie’s advice but only after some time.What is the purpose of the discussion between Brian, David, and Jamie?
A. To give David specific career advice.
B. To explore strategies for avoiding comparison and fostering gratitude.
C. To encourage competition among peers.
D. To highlight Brian’s achievements as a host.
1 . B
2 . B
3 . C
4 . B
5 . B
6 . A
7 . B
8 . B
9 . B
10 . B
EXERCISE 4: Matching Information
Instruction: Match each phrase to the correct point made by the speakers (Jamie or David).
A . Jamie
B . David
C . Jamie
D . Jamie
E . David
F . Jamie
G . Jamie
H . David
I . David
J . Jamie
EXERCISE 5: Sentence Rearrangement
Instruction: Rearrange the jumbled sentences to form coherent statements related to the conversation.
A race / is / Comparing yourself / running a marathon / like.
Social media / life’s / often shows / highlight reel / only.
Your own / focus / race / Jamie suggests / on running.
David / celebrating / wins / small / challenges himself / to start.
Help / gratitude / focusing / abundance / on / shifts the mindset to.
Confidence / momentum / recognition / builds / Jamie says / and.
Triggers / social media / can be / comparison.
David / a gratitude journal / hasn’t / yet / tried.
Mental health / Jamie suggests / prioritizing / over / staying updated.
Jamie / a process / emphasizes / breaking / comparison / is.
1 . Comparing yourself is like running a marathon.
2 . Social media often shows only life’s highlight reel.
3 . Jamie suggests focusing on running your own race.
4 . David challenges himself to start celebrating small wins.
5 . Focusing on gratitude shifts the mindset to abundance.
6 . Recognition builds confidence and momentum, Jamie says.
7 . Social media can be triggers for comparison.
8 . David hasn’t tried a gratitude journal yet.
9 . Jamie suggests prioritizing mental health over staying updated.
10 . Jamie emphasizes breaking comparison is a process.
EXERCISE 6: Choose the Correct Word
Instruction: Fill in the blanks with the correct word from the options provided.
Comparing yourself to others is like running a ________.
A. sprint
B. marathon
C. racecar
D. relaySocial media often shows only the _______ reel of people’s lives.
A. highlight
B. main
C. full
D. completeFocusing on gratitude shifts the mindset from scarcity to _______.
A. prosperity
B. abundance
C. deficiency
D. luxuryJamie says that celebrating small _______ builds confidence and momentum.
A. losses
B. tasks
C. wins
D. effortsDavid decides to try writing in a gratitude _______.
A. diary
B. blog
C. journal
D. calendarLimiting exposure to _______ can help reduce feelings of inadequacy.
A. goals
B. achievements
C. triggers
D. successesFOMO stands for the fear of _______.
A. missing out
B. moving on
C. making mistakes
D. missing opportunitiesJamie advises David to run his own _______.
A. race
B. plan
C. life
D. goalDavid feels stuck in his _______ because his friends are progressing faster.
A. journey
B. career
C. life
D. achievementsJamie reminds David to be _______ to himself along the way.
A. kind
B. hard
C. strict
D. tough
1 . B
2 . A
3 . B
4 . C
5 . C
6 . C
7 . A
8 . A
9 . B
10 . A
EXERCISE 7: Sentence Reordering
Instruction: Put the sentences in the correct order to recreate a summary of the conversation.
David shares that he feels stuck in his career compared to his friends.
Jamie advises focusing on running one’s own race instead of comparing.
David reflects that this advice makes sense and plans to stop looking sideways.
Jamie suggests practicing gratitude to shift focus from scarcity to abundance.
David considers starting a gratitude journal to build a positive mindset.
Brian mentions the importance of celebrating small wins for confidence.
Jamie emphasizes that even small progress deserves recognition.
David decides to limit his exposure to social media triggers.
Jamie reminds David to prioritize mental health over staying updated.
David concludes by committing to focus on his own progress and gratitude.
. 1 → 2 → 3 → 4 → 5 → 6 → 7 → 8 → 9 → 10
EXERCISE 8: Opinion Writing
Instruction: Based on the conversation, write a brief paragraph (3-5 sentences) sharing your own opinion
. I think Jamie’s advice about focusing on your own race is very practical and motivating.
. It’s easy to feel discouraged when we compare ourselves to others, especially on social media, but focusing on personal growth helps build confidence.
. Celebrating small wins and practicing gratitude are great ways to shift to a more positive mindset.
. I also believe limiting exposure to social media triggers can reduce unnecessary stress and help us prioritize our mental health.
EXERCISE 9: Word Match
Instruction: Match each term from the conversation with its correct definition.
B . 1
C . 8
D . 7
E . 6
F . 2
G . 3
H . 10
I . 5
J . 4
