The definition of competition is different for everyone. I think it spurns ugly emotions and horrible attitudes, when it is taken too seriously.
When it is put on a personal level, it can cause bitterness and jealousy. In this way, competing doesn't matter in my life. I absolutely could care less what kind of house or car others may own. I could care less what achievements or talents other people have. I am sure I am perfectly content with where I live, what car I drive and everything else on the personal side. If I choose to change or improve myself, it's only between me and me and me.
Competition during a game is supposed to be "healthy", but this is only true if we know how to lose politely. We all win and we all lose, however, it's our attitude after the match which makes it healthy or unhealthy. Again, this isn't worth the bitterness of the loss. We can only learn and try harder to succeed or win the next time.
In the game of life, competition seems to be rampant. People watch DIY and the home channels, wanting the best and biggest home, revamping or redecorating with high end features. Home prices are even based on how much stuff you have in the house. Though the house next door is for sale for $1.6 million does not mean I want that house. I am content where I live.
There are expensive clothes and accessories to purchase and wear, and I have been known to splurge on a few myself. Though I have a couple of these fashionable, yet nonessential items, does not mean I am competing with every other woman walking down the street. The list continues with expensive pets, colleges for kids, electronics, furniture, toys, vacations, etc. I think it would be amazing for society to have a competition on volunteering or giving time to charitable causes. Let's see how awesome everyone can be and let the "better" person be the one who shows kindness or who cares about other people in the world, instead of materialistic competition with family, friends or neighbors.
Some think competition is needed in the business world. I agree with this to a certain point. It keeps people honest. Without competition, there is no one else bidding or vying for the same business, and being the only company, you could name your price. However, it's still unfortunate that we need it to keep people honest, as we should be honest at all times in our transactions. I've seen first hand how competition in business has been put directly on a personal level. It's unnecessary and like any other wasted emotion, we should try to walk in the other direction.
We can't help when some people talk bad, show their worse side or let their jealousies show. Learning to identify it can make it much easier to turn the other cheek. Competition is something we have to live with, not an excuse for bad behavior or turning on another human.
The way I look at competition is there is more than one company offering the same goods and/or services. If you're honest, offer a good product for a fair price, you can usually beat out the competition. It would be extremely difficult if everyone had this same idea of honesty. Choosing one good company over another entails a closer look at other details for them to consider, like location, relationships and experience. The more your competition is incompetent, and the more true your work is, the easier it is to be awarded the work over any competitor.
It's far easier and a happier life is led when you pay attention to what is in your own hands and your own responsibilities, rather than looking across at what other people may have.
