Dealing with Mental Challenges in Competion

Dealing with Mental Challenges in Competion
Photo by Michal Vrba / Unsplash

Competition is part of the human fabric. For as long as we have been around, we have competed against one another for food, status and money.

Competition is something that we like to think is very understood in the modern day, but is it really?

Many people identify as being competitive, but what does that even mean? That they don't like to lose? I mean, who does really?

I feel that this phrase is often used to excuse certain behaviors that occur during competition, such as aggression, violence, rudeness or unsportsmanlike conduct.

It can be easier and more acceptable to say "I'm competitive", rather than "I want to win so much that I may act in ways that are not totally friendly".

To be clear, I am not saying that anyone who identifies as competitive behaves in an unsportsmanlike manner, nor am I saying that in competition there is no room for aggression or an edge that comes with top performers competing at the highest levels of their fields.

What I do wonder is how we, as performers, can manage our emotions and competitive drive so that can perform at the highest possible level.

  • Does doubling down into a mode where you are very competitive and aggressive bring an edge?
  • Is it more optimal to play cool, calm and collected?
  • Does striving for a win lead to better outcomes, or is competing for the sake of competing a more reliable way to ensure a victory?

Case Studies

Michael Jordan

Even as someone who does not follow basketball, I was fascinated and in awe when I saw "The Last Dance" on Netflix - the documentary on the career of Michael Jordan and the rise of the Chicago Bulls.

The tenacity, grit, and mastery of the craft that it is clear that Jordan shows for the game of basketball is awe inspiring.

Jordan was the epitomy of a competitive player. He was renowned for being extremely competitive with both opponents and his own teammates.

His aggression, drive to win, and relentless desire to be better than every other player is absolutely clear, and no doubt is a huge part of what made him a living legend of the sport.

When he lost games he clearly felt an immense sense of disappointment.

I can't help but wonder if this intolerance of losing was one of his main drivers for becoming one of, if not the, best basketballers of all time, or if a more balanced approach could have propelled him even further.

Faker

In the world of League of Legends, one of the largest Esports in the world, a young man called Lee Sang-hyeok, but better known as 'Faker', is widely recognised as one of, if not the best player to ever play the game.

Having won the World Championships 5 times, the Mid-Season Invitational title twice, and 10 Korean (LCK) titles - which, in a region that is widely recognised as one of the most competitive if not the most competitive regions in the world.

What makes his story particularly remarkable is how long he has been consistently performing as one of the best players in the world.

His latest World Championship was this year (2024), when he was 28, in a scene where the average player retires at around 22-24.

His name is iconic in League spheres and his skill, prowess and contributions to the game have all been recognised by his recent induction into the Legends Hall of Fame - making him the first ever inductee.

My favourite thing about Faker is his mindset - at the previous couple of World Championships he was entirely focused on his own performance and how to be the best he can be, and not at all on the result.

Keeping this cool mindset has no doubt helped Faker maximise his potential, and allow him to become the most decorated League player of all time.


Do these two styles of competition contradict each other?

Is it possible that either is a viable, or is one more optimal than the other?

I do not know the answer, and I admire both competitors immensely. Both have reached the top of their fields, dominating for years and winning near endlessly.

I think that these two mindsets can be summarised accordingly:

Bulldog Mentality

  • Aggressive
  • Physical
  • Focused on dominating the opponent

Cat Mentality

  • Poised
  • Patient
  • Reflective and focused on themselves

These characteristics are not exclusive to either character, but rather these are more prominent under the respective mentality types as far as I can see.

Either way, there is much that we can learn from both types and from our two case studies when it comes to competing, not least of which is their total unyielding love and commitment, and the determination, skill and mastery that has allowed them to rise to the pinnacle of their crafts.

When it comes to the next time you return to your chosen vocation, hobby, or craft, think about what it means to you, your process for improving, your idols in that field, and what mentality you approach it with.

Perhaps you can emulate one of these mindsets to reach new heights and become a master of your craft.

If you enjoyed this article, please subscribe to my newsletter using the button below.

Thanks for reading friends, speak soon.

Jack