"In other words, comparison and competitiveness aren't inherently unhealthy. They can start as useful responses to real demands. When Comparisons and Competitiveness Become a Problem Problems arise when comparison and competitiveness become the default way of relating to yourself and others. Each time you compare yourself and feel a surge of motivation ( I need to work harder) or relief ( At least I'm not behind them), this behavior gets reinforced."
"But from a personality science perspective, comparing yourself to others and being competitive are better understood as patterns of thinking and behavior that develop over time. And like most personality patterns, they are malleable. Understanding why these tendencies develop and how they're reinforced can help us approach this side of our personality with compassion. Making comparisons is one of the brain's oldest tools."
Comparison and competitiveness are patterns of thinking and behavior that develop over time and remain malleable. These tendencies evolved to track status, resources, and relative standing, helping people learn expectations and fit within social groups. Competitiveness can increase motivation, persistence, and performance, and in moderate amounts is associated with achievement and leadership. Problems occur when comparison and competitiveness become the default way of relating to self and others, reinforcing avoidance of shame or fleeting relief. Shifting toward more cooperative behavior can increase agreeableness and lower neuroticism, offering healthier relationship and emotional outcomes.
Read at Psychology Today
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