I have always been very competitive, which surprises people who don’t know me well. Because I tend to be quiet and reserved, it’s often assumed that I’m either meek or a push-over. I’m not.
My dad taught me that people are competitive in different ways, but yet many times we only recognize the same competitive trait in others that we share. Athletes resonate with other athletes, successful business leaders are in tune with others in that arena, and artists are quick to appreciate the same competitive spirit in fellow artists.
When we understand that different incentives motivate different people, we’re able to get outside our little bubble and truly see people from a new perspective. While I might want to dominate on the soccer field, someone else might want to be the greatest guitar player ever. Different goals, similar competitive spirit.
However, I’ve learned that it’s possible to be too competitive. There have been times when circumstances have prevented me from accomplishing something, and yet my competitive drive wouldn’t let up; the result was often despair and self-doubt, which is destructive. I’m learning to maintain a powerful competitive spirit, but one that is mature enough to recognize limitations, to recognize obstacles that are out of my control.
Taken together, the drive and the maturity will give me a healthy balance between success and serenity.
(Okay, Galahad fans, what do you think? Have you noticed that your competitive drive is stronger in a particular aspect of your life? Is it different from some of your friends, or family members? And what about Triana’s thoughts on being too competitive? Do you agree that without a mature recognition of your own limitations you might easily find yourself too critical of yourself? Where does that healthy balance lie? Be sure to post your thoughts here, and then share a link to this site with your friends!)
[...] Some insightful thoughts on what it means to be competitive, courtesy of Triana’s [...]