Comparing vs. Competing (one defines, and the other refines)

Sometimes the inability to reach potential or even play hard comes down to the fact that we are comparing rather than competing. Competition is a good thing.  If a teammate (or a team) beats you (or your team), you try harder to improve and play better. This is the competition that helps to refine your focus and skills.  It drives improvement.

Comparison, on the other hand, is different.  Comparison is about being better than someone else. Comparision that defines a player, team, or coach leads to diminished or inflated worth and takes the focus and energy (for improvement) away from their control. 

Let competition refine you, not define you.