Already Enough
World-renowned anthropologist Margaret Mead concluded that competitiveness is a culturally created aspect of human behavior, and that its prevalence in a particular society is relative to how that society values it.* No doubt, our capitalistic environment values all forms of competition and individual fortitude, and athletics play a dominant role in this landscape.
As summer reaches its peak, a multitude of competitive recreational and professional athletic events, including golf, tennis, swimming, biking, running, and ultra-endurance sports, abound in our communities.
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Those of us who take part choose to put ourselves on the line. We dare to measure our skills against another’s to determine who will emerge victorious. In so doing, we often raise expectations of ourselves. And therein lies the risk. Are we good enough? Do we have the goods on this given day?
Ultimately, these competitions become a microcosm of life.
In the span of hours, we’re confronted with our true thoughts, feelings, and emotions about ourselves in relation to our opponents. What’s more, we have to navigate all of this in the heat of the moment. We’re called to execute the shot, make the move or respond in some way that may lead to success or failure.
The pressing question to consider is: Regardless of my performance on this day, am I already “enough?” When we truly believe that we’re “enough,” we can engage in life with more freedom, because we’re not preoccupied with a fear of failure, imperfection and comparison.
Guidance to cultivate an attitude of “I’m already enough” in our competitive culture:
1. Is my self-worth tied to my performance?
2. Am I more concerned with what people will think?
3. Can I put my skills on the line without negative self-judgment, blame or comparison?
4. Can I build a gratitude practice to acknowledge that there is enough and I’m enough?
