COMPETITION

For years I have held my thumb and forefinger apart by about an inch as I encourage people to be just a little bit better.

Many people look around them and compare their lives to others, to things or to icons.  What they don’t realize is that there isn’t any competition in the world worth getting into that will improve you or the world.  You have to work on yourself!

Are you comparing yourself because of:

1. Age – Well there are people who are old who do well and some who don’t.  There are people who are young who do well and some who don’t.  Age has nothing to do with it.   You are exactly the right age to be wonderful right now!

2. Money – Perhaps you think that you need to have the assets of Elon Musk to declare that you are a success.  Well, then, what about Mother Theresa?  She didn’t do well because of her financial means.

3. Skills – Are you wishing that you could sing like Barbra Streisand, paint like Picasso, or act like George Clooney?  Sorry.  They are unique and you might try to copy them, but you will never be them.

4. Physique – Do you envy body builders, models or beauty icons?  Look in the mirror and face reality.  You are who you are and no matter how much you wish to be 6 feet tall you are really only 5 foot 6 inches (or whatever).

5. History – Maybe you can falsify or exaggerate the facts but deep down you know the truth!

6. Career – Looking at the websites of others and trying to copy them will probably only lead to frustration.  Bottom line is your business, or career has to consist of excellent service combined with expertise.

So, what can you do:

1. Improve your Attitude – choose to be positive and add a smile for balance.  Those who growl at others, gossip or take cheap shots will eventually face what some call Karma.

2. Connect with others – learn to listen to people and share ideas.  We all need good friends and wise mentors.

3. Practice peace – Still the waters instead of churning them.  Trying to get revenge or win an argument has a price attached and you might not like it when it appears as a negative consequence. 

4. Find a purpose – Those who are unhappy often suffer because they have too much time to be unhappy.  Get busy and do something.

5. Dream – Think about things that will inspire you to be and do better.  (If you are stuck, go back into your mind to when you were an adolescent and had tons of dreams).

6. Practice self-care – Look after your physical and mental health.  Remember, you only have one body, and it is important to take care of it.  (Even if it isn’t the size or shape that you desire).

Of most importance, remember that you only have to be a little bit better.  There is no competition outside of yourself.  Just make little positive changes on a regular basis without losing time and energy comparing yourself to the world around you.

You are you and you are amazing!

Dr. Linda Hancock, the author of “Life is An Adventure…every step of the way” and “Open for Business Success” is a Registered Psychologist who has a private practice in Calgary. She can be reached at 403-957-2444 or through email office@drlindahancock.com