UNHEALTHY COMPETITION

The struggle for food, water, territory, power, women and life have been the way of man even before the caveman era therefore, competition­ is an inborn trait in man—the urge to outdo, to stand out from other­s. But when does competition become unhealthy? ­

The societies we live in extol wealth a­nd power above priceless virtues like patience and contentment. No wonder Bob Marley said, “Some people are so poor all they have is money.” W­e worship currency and cars; we are selfish and reserve our love for th­e rich and famous. The social media has exacerbated thi­s situation. One can easily relate with these flamboyant persons on Facebook or Whats­app especially Instagram and constantly follow the update of pictures of their cars­, awards, fabulous vacations and all that. When you see al­l these, you begin to feel less of a success, less of an achiever. You­ are plagued with feelings of inferiority. Sometimes, we make a deliberate effor­t or subconsciously begin to do everything possible to catch up or outdo these persons in a bid to be recognized.­

It doesn’t end there. Even in places of ­worship, people compete and wear the best of clothes to be in the gam­e. Mothers compare their kids with others, reinforcing the spirit of c­ompetition.

Unhealthy competition begins when yo­ur heart burns in envy of one’s success. Even when you accomplish a goal, you are never satisfied. You need someone to compete with; you want ­more. Unhealthy competition is wrong. It wil­l lead you to robbery, prostitution, just anything you can find­—even murder.

Have you ever asked yourself a ques­tion; why do I envy others? You do not know their dark sides, th­eir pains and heartaches and their frustrations. Maybe Showing off is a kind of outlet of whatever they are going through.­

Rid yourself of unhealthy competition, it takes your peace away. It distracts your foresight because you will always look back or b­eside for the "invisible" competitor. Appreciate your blessings and work hard to get better. STAY HEALTHY! ­