It seems to exist in all facets of society, from the workplace to the dating world. Don’t get me wrong — competition can be fun and stimulating, as long as it doesn’t activate our shadow side. This thought process can cause us to harbor an unhealthy sense of jealousy and self-pity every time we compare ourselves to people who seem to be doing better than we are. If we aren’t careful, this can spiral out of control and lead to a desire to sabotage the success and happiness of others with gossip or backstabbing. It’s important to realize that people who engage in this kind of behavior always end up hurting themselves the most. The need to compare oneself to another has a corrosive effect on our spirit and can drain our vitality and zest for life. Hypercompetitive thoughts are not vicious or evil in any way. They’re small cries for validation that speak to a desire to feel significant in the eyes of others. If you are someone who feels weighed down by this ego-driven need to compare yourself with others, here are some steps that can lead you in a more positive direction: One of the best ways to adopt an abundance mindset is by practicing gratitude. Maintaining a gratitude journal, in which you list a few things you are grateful for in your life on a daily basis, will make you more appreciative of the bounty that already surrounds you. Another effective technique is reciting empowering affirmations whenever you find yourself slipping into a mindset of scarcity.
