The Problem I Have with Competition

The more we get together
Together, together
The more we get together
The happier we'll be

I believe that much of the world’s problems are caused by an imbalance between competition and collaboration, where competing is often highlighted as the primary way of “making it.” This imbalance exists in almost every facet of society, from sports, the workplace, academics, politics & educational institutions. There is always someone who is competing to beat out someone else. If we’re not careful, it can cause more harm than good.

News outlets do us no favors by disproportionately pinning us against one another by primarily highlighting competitive narratives. Rarely do we see stories that celebrate our collective existence and how those stories paint a picture of societal growth and positive ways of life. 

This is not to say that competition can’t exist. Healthy competition has contributed to many beautiful moments in society and has taught us to not always take ourselves too seriously. In the workplace, it helps us to choose the best candidates for the job. In sports, it can (as long as we remember that it’s only a game) foster community amongst players and spectators. However, competition that persistently pins us against one another is toxic to our well-being.  

However, it is time for us to shift the scales and refocus our efforts on meaningful collaboration. The kind of collaboration that helps to become our brother’s keeper and recognize that no man is an island.

Choosing sides is nowhere as effective as choosing to work collectively, because the more we get together, the happier we’ll be.