“If we are all one, then which approach serves us better, ultimately, competition or collaboration?” — W. Scott Erickson
When I came across this quote from my friend Scott, it took me no time at all to answer it – collarboration, of course. In the form of a question, it is a great opportunity for deeper consideration.
In many parts of our contemporary lives, competition rules – business, sports, and sadly even in relationships. However, just exactly what good is competition anyway?
I believe that much of the competition we take for granted is actually born of the false belief that we need to be better, smarter, stronger or richer that others in order to be important, valued and praised. Most of competition actually works to separate us from others so we can stand above or lord over others.
Those who reach that pinacle of “the best” often find it lonely and, of course, difficult to remain at the top as others naturally challenge that position to reach there themselves.
Collaberation, on the other hand, offers the opportunity to excell in the company of colleagues, to call on the best of others to join your best and create something better than any one alone could achieve. One thing is needed, however, and that is to let go of the need for the spotlight to fall on only you. The ability to enjoy everyone succeeding is found in knowing through the eyes of oneness that everyone’s success is yours too.
So what good is competition? I believe the value of competition is found when you are competing with yourself. Have you done something better today than you did yesterday? Are you sharpening your skills or producing a better product or service? Then you are using competition in the best possible way – to grow and achieve.
