How to Stay Sane in a Competitive Environment
I wanted to share a personal experience from my time at St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Kolkata where the competitive atmosphere initially led me to doubt myself and my abilities. In the beginning, I found myself constantly comparing my achievements to those of my peers, which resulted in a negative self-perception and a feeling of inadequacy. However, through implementing certain strategies, I was able to overcome these challenges and thrive.
Here's how I managed to stay sane and navigate the competitive environment:
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When I first started college, I became consumed with the idea of measuring my success against that of my classmates. I would constantly quantify my achievements and compare them to others, often resulting in feelings of disappointment and self-loathing. It seemed like everyone around me was achieving more, and I couldn't help but question my own worth.
To regain my sanity and regain a healthier perspective, I implemented the following measures:
- Focussing on my personal Strengths and Weaknesses without attaching them to my Self-Worth
- Avoiding quantifying my achievements and ranking myself on the basis of what I do
- Changing perspective of Competition
- Finding my authentic and unique niche and using it to personal advantage instead of copying what others do
- Letting go of Arbitrary timelines
By implementing these measures and shifting my perspective, I successfully navigated the competitive environment of St. Xavier's College. Over time, I learned to appreciate my own journey, celebrate my achievements, and embrace my authentic self. Remember, your worth extends beyond any competition, and your personal growth is not defined by how you compare to others. Stay focused, believe in yourself, and thrive in your own unique way.
