The article explores the transformative nature of competition, emphasizing a shift from a threat-based mentality focused on defeating others to one centered on mutual growth and trust. Through examples from elite athletes like Madison Keys, who learned to redefine success and alleviate the pressure of competition, the piece highlights the importance of feeling safe and supported. This perspective not only applies to sports but also to politics, leadership, and daily interactions, challenging conventional views of competition as merely a means to establish superiority.
When we feel safe and connected, competition shifts from a battle for dominance to an opportunity for growth, play, and co-regulation.
This approach is rooted in threat-oriented, survival-based physiological states, as we try to establish ourselves as superior.
Madison Keys redefined her relationship with competition, stating, 'I was supposed to be great, but I'm not,' highlighting the pressure of performance.
When we feel sufficiently safe, competition becomes an opportunity to stretch ourselves, challenge our limits, and elevate our abilities.
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