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Every day of these Paris Olympics, medalists, like Léon Marchand or Simone Biles, fascinate us with their mental strength, their strength and their aplomb throughout the events. But is this given to everyone (with the right entourage)? Or are they endowed with a special strength of character? Psychology has tried to answer.
They are 22 or 27 years old, but seem to have fallen into the Olympic cauldron since childhood. Léon Marchand, French swimmer, or the immense Simone Biles fascinate us with their harvest of medals. But is this will to win innate in some elected officials only or can it be worked on? The media Psychology Today provides the beginning of an answer.
Competitiveness, an archaic force
While it may be admired on television these days, competitiveness is not new. It is, by definition, a powerful force that can push people to achieve remarkable feats, but it can also lead to conflict and stress. Before it became common in sports, it was a means of acquiring resources to survive and procreate in an exceptionally difficult environment.
Today, we have moved beyond competition for our basic survival needs and have engaged in athletic, academic, professional, and social competitions. And some people are certainly better equipped than others.
Characteristics of exceptional competitors
Unfortunately, we are not all equal from the start, to shine on the podiums (which is also the beauty of sport). According to Stéphanie Sarkis, psychologist and author, several factors influence a person’s level of competitiveness. These can be broadly classified into genetic, environmental and situational factors.
Genetic factors
Research suggests that there is a genetic component to competitiveness. Some people are naturally more competitive because of their genetic makeup. If you have a biological parent who is an elite athlete, you are more likely to inherit their physiological traits related to speed, for example. Most elite athletes with explosive power also inherited a variation of the ACTN3 gene, which causes muscle cells to produce a protein found in fast-twitch muscle fibers.
Environmental factors
Of course, the environment in which a person grows up can play a vital role in shaping their competitive nature. Family dynamics, cultural context, and societal values can influence an individual’s competitiveness. For example, children whose parents are athletic may be physically active from a young age.
Situational factors
A competitive environment, such as a high-stakes job or an elite sports team, can amplify a person’s fighting spirit. Similarly, a supportive, collaborative setting can diminish the drive to compete.
Feeling good in your body, feeling good in your head!
Inspired by so much talent, would you like to be a little more efficient in your daily life, in sports or simply in life, and to snatch a few victories yourself? The psychologist nevertheless warns: there are two kinds of competitiveness. One is healthy, which involves the desire to improve and achieve your personal goals and push your limits (within reasonable limits). The other is unhealthy, motivated by the need to surpass others at all costs and which is a source of stress.
If you don’t swim on a treadmill or in a lane, it is still possible to strengthen your strong minded on a daily basis and to promote healthy competitiveness in your private, sporting or professional life, by respecting a few rules:
Focus on personal development
If comparing yourself to others is causing you to feel burnout, celebrate your accomplishments and use competition to motivate yourself to improve.
Keep Perspective
Remember that competition is just one aspect of life. Don’t let it consume you or define your self-worth.
Practice fair play
Respect ethical standards and your competitors. Fair play enhances the enjoyment and integrity of competition.
To manage stress
Competitive environments can be stressful especially if the competition doesn’t motivate you. Stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness, and deep breathing can help maintain mental health in competitive environments. Keep in mind that often our biggest competitor is ourselves.
Use a growth mindset
If failures during competition cause you to view yourself negatively, try to change your mindset. Try to view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Representing difficulties as learning experiences can encourage resilience and perseverance.
Understand competitiveness as an aspect of yourself
Even though you are competitive, your personality includes many other traits. Your competitive nature is just part of what makes you unique.
Also remember that while some of us thrive on competition, others benefit from less competition. We can achieve personal growth by encouraging healthy competitiveness and creating a more balanced and fulfilling life. Ultimately, it is always up to you to choose the level of competition you allow in your life.
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