I recently presented some research at the International Symposium on Contemplative Sciences, a conference that brings together scientists and contemplative people from many traditions. The study tested a variety of methods people could use to make themselves feel better as they move through the world. One in particular is called by social psychologists "downward social comparison." In brief, it is expected that one way we can bolster our sense of self-esteem is by noticing that we are better off than others.