Monday Morning Motivational Message - Competitiveness

How competitive are you? 

Is competition something you relish or something you avoid?

The first time I realized I was competing against another person was when I started playing basketball in 4th grade; however, in reality, I'd been competing against my brothers for years. We'd played hundreds of one-on-one games of basketball on the court in our backyard, and we used to run pass patterns against each other with our dad serving as the permanent quarterback.

Competition is a measure of our ability and skill in comparison to others. It's something that has been part of my life since I was old enough to walk.  

But what are the positive and negative characteristics of being competitive?

Here are four benefits of being competitive:

1. Whether in your personal or professional life, being competitive doesn't allow you to settle. You're always striving to be better.

2. Competitive people find ways to push through the difficult times. They use adversity as fuel to improve themselves.

3. The glass of a competitive individual is usually always at least half full, not half empty. They tend to see the best in themselves, others, and difficult situations.

4. And speaking of glasses, a competitive person drinks deeply from the cup of life. They challenge themselves by trying new experiences and exploring new options.  

Some cons of being a competitive person include:

1. The pressure of comparison can take a toll on you. Too many people compare themselves to what others are doing or what they have. 

2. Being competitive can lead to the blame game. When you work hard to achieve something and fail, there is a tendency to blame others rather than taking personal responsibility for your success and happiness.

3. While people (or your relationship with them) are more important than anything you achieve, highly competitive people can burn through relationships because they are so focused on their outcomes.

4. Success is not linear. Competitive individuals believe that the harder they work, the better they will perform. Unfortunately, that's not necessarily true. Sometimes, when you work hard, you may reach a plateau or even experience a decline in your ability. Being unable to improve consistently can defeat or demoralize a person. 

Thousands, if not millions, of people are pursuing the same desires and dreams that you are. That's why if you want big rewards, you have to take big chances, with the realization that you'll have to adapt and learn from every defeat and drawback. 

Understanding the benefits and pitfalls of being competitive can lead to tremendous success while also allowing for a balanced and connected life with others who can share in your achievements. 

Please share your thoughts on the concept of competitiveness in life. Your opinions and perspective are valuable, and I'd appreciate hearing from you.