Competition
You can inspire others to a higher standard of performance and raise a group’s achievement level by creating a culture of winning – comparing against standards of excellence, being aware of competitors’ performance and celebrating victories.
Competition is rooted in comparison. When you look at the world, you are instinctively aware of other people’s performance. It is your ultimate benchmark. No matter how hard you try, no matter how worthy your intentions, if you reach your goal but do not outperform your peers, the achievement feels hollow.
You like measurement because it makes it easier to compare. If you can compare, you can compete. If you can compete, you can win. And when you win, there is no feeling quite like it. You like other competitors because they invigorate you. You like contests because they must produce a winner. You particularly like contests when you know you have an advantage, and you will avoid contests when winning seems unlikely. You don’t compete for the fun of competing — you compete to win.
Aim for first place so you’ll always finish strong.