|
Written by Will
|
|
Tuesday, 11 December 2007 |
Within us all, there is a competitive force that drives us towards our ultimate survival. It's nature at work. Without it, our desire and motivation for living would be non-existent. It's what makes us tick. And as I had previously mentioned, the intensity of our determinations is what separates us from one another. Whether it is possessions, relationships, skillsets, and/or a certain lifestyle - everyone has end goals.
As I matured through adolescence, my primary mode of competition was through games. Any game I was ever serious about, I strived to become the best. The true elite. Without this end goal, I found no reason to play. I would practice, specialize, and perfect what I was most capable of. Over time, as I faced my limitations.. I became envious of those who were of higher caliber. Insatiable with second-best accomplishments, I felt inadequate.
But, what truly separates the elite from the average player? Why should I feel inadequate? Let's be real here. It's the time commitment. Regardless of how much of a seasoned of player I may be, I will never be able to defeat someone who has dedicated their life or a greater majority of it towards that end goal. They are simply more committed.
Value is a very dynamic term. It changes based on perspective. It's entirely based on perception. While there are universal traits that are deemed valuable by society, there are also specific traits that are considered valuable based on individual preference. Universal traits are traits you can work on and develop, such as: ambition, charisma, confidence, health, wealth, etc. And specific traits are usually mindsets and specific interests that can easily be adopted if necessary.
The reason why someone could ever believe they are of low value (or inadequate) is because they compare themselves to their ideal self. Or something about themselves they would rather change. First, you must accept the fact that you cannot become the best at everything. Acknowledge your limitations and weaknesses. Redefine your goals. Then strengthen your core competencies.
"A prince need not possess princely qualities.
He merely needs the appearance of princely qualities." - Machiavelli
It is only natural to have diminishing returns when perfecting a single trait..
Maintaining variability when developing yourself will produce greater results.
 |
