Compassionate Competition

Does business feel like dog eat dog?

Does competition drive you and others to the edge of aggressive, gnawing, clawing feelings that leave you drained?

Or, do you thrive on it?

We do live in a competitive culture. When jobs took on a new scarcity it forced many people to view their opportunities from a limited point of view. If opportunities are limited, don't I have to act aggressively to seize those that come my way? Don't I have to defeat the competition convincingly and swiftly?

At what cost?

Not at the cost of our values. Not at the cost of our integrity. Not at the cost of our kindness.

Fiercely competing does not force you to compromise your values. Fiercely competing does not force you to treat people unkindly.

It is possible to compete compassionately. Strive for your best outcome. Challenge other in your field of influence. Move forward assertively. AND act in ways that show kindness, consideration, and strength of character.

At the end of the big game, people will remember you for how you treated them, not for how many chips you won.

-- Douglas Brent Smith

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