From my high school days to the present, I've always focused on self-improvement rather than competition. In high school, I consistently ranked in the top 20 out of 480 students, often fluctuating between first, second, and third in my class. However, I never considered anyone a particular rival. Instead, I viewed my fellow students as friendly competitors who studied alongside me.
I studied naturally, without the obsessive need to outperform others. When someone performed better than me, I honestly acknowledged it, and it often became a source of motivation. I believed that individual growth and development were more important than rankings.
This attitude persisted even after I entered university. Interestingly, though I didn't consider anyone my rival, some people saw me as their competitor. This phenomenon became more pronounced after I became a professor. When competing for certain positions or roles, I would simply consider and accept if offered, but others seemed to think I was taking opportunities away from them.
The same held true when I took on the role of university president. I viewed the presidency as a kind of "night watch" - a position of heavy responsibility where one must stay awake while others rest. It saddened me to see many people coveting this position and competing fiercely for it.
Looking back, I've always tried to do my best in any given task without being greedy. However, I realize that I may have unknowingly caused discomfort to others. This is perhaps an unavoidable aspect of life's long journey.
Through these experiences, I've come to understand that true success doesn't come from comparing oneself to others, but from maximizing one's own potential. The existence of rivals can motivate us, but it shouldn't dominate our lives.
The life philosophy I've pursued has always been to maintain a humble and open mind, giving my best in whatever role I'm given. This attitude has helped me grow and ultimately led to greater achievements. Walking your own path without getting caught up in competition - that's the wisdom I've gained through my experiences.
I studied naturally, without the obsessive need to outperform others. When someone performed better than me, I honestly acknowledged it, and it often became a source of motivation. I believed that individual growth and development were more important than rankings.
This attitude persisted even after I entered university. Interestingly, though I didn't consider anyone my rival, some people saw me as their competitor. This phenomenon became more pronounced after I became a professor. When competing for certain positions or roles, I would simply consider and accept if offered, but others seemed to think I was taking opportunities away from them.
The same held true when I took on the role of university president. I viewed the presidency as a kind of "night watch" - a position of heavy responsibility where one must stay awake while others rest. It saddened me to see many people coveting this position and competing fiercely for it.
Looking back, I've always tried to do my best in any given task without being greedy. However, I realize that I may have unknowingly caused discomfort to others. This is perhaps an unavoidable aspect of life's long journey.
Through these experiences, I've come to understand that true success doesn't come from comparing oneself to others, but from maximizing one's own potential. The existence of rivals can motivate us, but it shouldn't dominate our lives.
The life philosophy I've pursued has always been to maintain a humble and open mind, giving my best in whatever role I'm given. This attitude has helped me grow and ultimately led to greater achievements. Walking your own path without getting caught up in competition - that's the wisdom I've gained through my experiences.
