I've got it the wrong way around!

I have no other advice than to:

• Think about it every now and then. (What you're supposed to do)
• Give compliments
• Focus on the progress you make instead of comparing yourself to others.
• Accept that you cannot change overnight

I don't have much experience when it comes to this, I only know what works for me, but you could always give this a try!

 

Well, you've got a complex issue with several parts to attack bit by bit, but for one, I'll take a guess that you're projecting your feelings on others. You're seeing your shortcomings in others at the gym. Yeah, I do it too. But, you can't merely force yourself to focus on others, especially if you project your faults on others. One thing to try is to engage your listening abilities. When someone tells you something, repeat it back to them using other words. This will help the connection. Also, try to find out what their story is and imagine yourself in their stories. Doing this can take a lot of energy and if you're exhausted from work or whatever, realize listening will be harder. Meditation may help too. Meditation is simply taking the time to listen to your own thoughts and body.

 

In addition to what others have said: be thankful! Try to spend some time every day thinking about something that you're grateful for, however large or small. This really helps put things in a broad perspective so that you don't get focused on comparing with others.

While it's perfectly fine to try and learn from others, think about what comparing yourself to them will accomplish for you. For me it doesn't lead to anything productive, and I'd imagine the same for you as well. What would you gain by hypothetically becoming "better" than that person? Maybe a short term sense of pride, but in the long run nothing substantial.