The Competition of Happiness

Originally Published: Jul 5, 2014

Competition. Rivalry. Opposition. War.

During my lifetime, there have been many things which have made me jealous, made me mad, or made me cry. Some of these things were rooted in competing with others, judging others or myself, and just overreacting to things that don't matter.

It doesn't have to be that way.

I have realized that life is not a competition. At least, not with others.  Life is not a game of winners and losers, just winners. We have all beat birth, so far beat death, and dealt with numerous setbacks and triumphs.

I broke my collarbone a year ago. There was no need to compare my break to another person's, because in all honesty, they were both awful and painful. I graduated from college this year. There was no need to compare my graduation and my college years with any other person's because mine was uniquely rewarding and challenging.

You could think of yourself as a flower. Beautiful, aren't you? Haha, but honestly, flowers don't compete with the flower next to them, they just bloom.

This is what makes life so special, so unique, and so precious. One person may be similar to another, may share experiences or skills, but that one person is so different than even the most similar person to them. No one, not even your closest friend, sibling, or enemy is you. No one. Instead of making life a constant competition, life should be a game of peace, helping others, and enjoying the life we were all given, no matter the circumstances.

LIFE. Living In Fullness Everyday.

Life is certainly a journey. No one is ahead of you or behind you. You are not more advanced or less enlightened. You are exactly where you need to be. Exactly the person you should be. Remember, life is not a competition. Competition is the thief of joy. Joy is essential to happiness, Find your happiness and stay there.

I do have one small exception to my rule. This exception could change you, nah, it will change you. To achieve happiness today, I allow you to compete, but I only allow you to compete with yourself and be better than you were yesterday.

-Happiness in Handfulls