Competition is regarded as a bad thing by some people. They view it as destructive and damaging. However competition frequently has some very valuable dimensions to it.
- Motivation. Having a goal which really motivates to achieve more than the next person can really push one to explore the various ways available to reach that goal first. More imaginative thinking can be inspired when there is a challenge to overcome and someone else to strive to beat to the prize. It provides the determination to continue undeterred.
With motivation, it is important to respect that different people have different abilities. People need to compete in a way that motivates them positively, even if it is only against themselves and their own previous achievements. If you consider an exercise class. There will often be people of different ages, fitness levels, aspirations and desired goals. Some people may be there for purely social reasons, others may be training for a marathon. All of their reasons are valid and need respecting as such. Likewise, in a classroom scenario some children will have different abilities and ways of learning. Finding an appropriate way to motivate may involve a competative element, but it has to be chosen respectfully or else it may have the opposite affect and completely de-motivate.
- Lessons for life. Life can be tough at times. Applying for a job, running a race are just two areas where there will be more losers than winners. It is important to be able to cope with that situation personally and publically. Learn from it, relish the opportunity to have a go and do ones best, and then explore ways to improve for the next time, by maybe asking for feedback. It is also important to be able to cope with disappointment publically, by perhaps congratulating the winner, being genuinely able to appreciate their good fortune, talents and abilities and then being able to good humouredly look forward to the next opportunity to try again.
- Challenge oneself to go the extra distance. When we are competing there are often times when we flag, maybe wonder if we can continue, are not sure if we have what it takes. When there is someone in the race with us we are often able to find that extra surge of energy and enthusiasm required to motivate us to carry on. We are often able to find extra reserves of stamina and determination to work through and continue the competition.
- Find resources we never knew we had. Competition sometimes requires thinking outside the box, exploring any ways to succeed and win through. It often inspires us to consider options that may not appear relevant or viable at first, but the pressure to win can often bring in more imaginative thinking and the ability to develop extra skills and potential. Motivation and determination are key attributes at these times.
Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist
www.lifestyletherapy.net