If you could take a guess, how many times would you say you defined yourself by a number? From the time you learned to compare yourself to others, there has always been a number there to tell you how great you are. Whether this is your class average, the number you see pop up on the scale, your batting average or your SAT score, numbers have had some impact on your life.

Sometimes, numbers can be great. They make you feel like you accomplished something because all of your hard work pays off. But what is the cost? Is this sense of accomplishment going to be replaced by a sense of disappointment if the next number you see is one that signifies failure? You should be able to keep that sense of accomplishment alive, even if you face some bumps along the road.

A number is simply that: a number. It is used so often in our society that we forget its simplicity. It should not be able to control our emotions to such an extent that we lose our sense of purpose or belonging. You should remember what brings you happiness in those times when your life isn't controlled by numbers; those times that you're overwhelmed by your passion and forget to compare yourself with others.

There are so many other things to value in life besides your BMI or your GPA. Think about the relationships in your life. The ones with your family, friends and pet. Think about all of the things that make you happy. Redefine your definition of success. Try to read more to expand your imagination or solve a puzzle to feel a sense of accomplishment after seeing your creation.

If there is anything that college has taught me, it is that there is always going to be someone with whom to compare yourself. You'll always find yourself idolizing that one girl in your class who can seamlessly understand the material, or that one guy who is the perfect athlete or your one friend who always has everything going for them. If your life constantly relies on comparisons, you'll always find yourself upset.

Forget the numbers. Forget how you compare to others and remember what a number actually means. And, if you can't forget the presence of numbers in your life, view them positively; view them as a way to improve yourself. View them as a measure of how far you have come, rather than how far you still have to go.

There will always be something you have to get done, someone you want to be or somewhere you have to go. Living in the moment is unappreciated, but it truly can make you realize the value of the little things in life. So, take a minute to breathe and focus on your five senses rather than the numbers constantly swirling around in your head.