If you do not-consider yourself a winner,
the good news is that there is a competitive
instinct in everyone and it can be sharpened,
redefined and, if necessary, learned.
The willingness to compete is a learned competitive instinct
behavior and it starts early. Because
Western culture places a tremendous
emphasis on individual rather than group
goals, the “win-no-matter-what” attitude can
emerge prior to a child’s entering school.

Did you know that competitive instincts can be traced back to ancient civilizations? In Rome, the idea of victory was deeply intertwined with honor and societal status. Gladiatorial games and races showcased the competitive nature of individuals, both to gain prestige and to prove their strength. This historical backdrop highlights how competition has been valued and cultivated for thousands of years, setting the stage for the modern emphasis on personal achievement and success.

In today’s world, harnessing that competitive spirit can lead to remarkable achievements in various fields. For instance, sports programs in schools teach children teamwork and resilience, helping them to embrace competition positively. Professionals can channel their competitive instincts to drive innovation and improvement in the workplace, pushing themselves to outperform previous benchmarks and inspiring their peers. Remember, it’s not just about winning; it’s about personal growth and learning through the competition!