From my 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. Yet, I never viewed anyone as a particular rival. Instead, I saw my fellow students as friendly competitors, all of us striving together.
I studied naturally, without the obsessive need to outperform others. When someone excelled beyond me, I acknowledged it honestly, and it often became a source of motivation. I believed that individual growth and development were far more important than rankings.
This attitude persisted into my university years. Interestingly, though I didn't consider anyone my rival, some people viewed me as theirs. This phenomenon became even more pronounced after I became a professor. When competing for positions or roles, I would simply consider and accept if offered, but others seemed to think I was snatching 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 vigilant while others rest. It saddened me to see many coveting this position and fiercely competing for it.
Looking back, I've always tried to do my best in any given task without being overly ambitious. However, I realize that I may have unknowingly caused discomfort to others. Perhaps this is an unavoidable aspect of life's long journey.
Through these experiences, I've come to understand that true success doesn't stem from comparing oneself to others, but from maximizing one's own potential. While the existence of rivals can be motivating, we shouldn't let it dominate our lives.
The life philosophy I've pursued has always been to maintain a humble and open mind, giving my all to whatever role I'm given. This attitude has fostered my growth and ultimately led to greater achievements. Walking your own path without getting caught up in competition - that's the wisdom I've gained through experience.
I studied naturally, without the obsessive need to outperform others. When someone excelled beyond me, I acknowledged it honestly, and it often became a source of motivation. I believed that individual growth and development were far more important than rankings.
This attitude persisted into my university years. Interestingly, though I didn't consider anyone my rival, some people viewed me as theirs. This phenomenon became even more pronounced after I became a professor. When competing for positions or roles, I would simply consider and accept if offered, but others seemed to think I was snatching 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 vigilant while others rest. It saddened me to see many coveting this position and fiercely competing for it.
Looking back, I've always tried to do my best in any given task without being overly ambitious. However, I realize that I may have unknowingly caused discomfort to others. Perhaps this is an unavoidable aspect of life's long journey.
Through these experiences, I've come to understand that true success doesn't stem from comparing oneself to others, but from maximizing one's own potential. While the existence of rivals can be motivating, we shouldn't let it dominate our lives.
The life philosophy I've pursued has always been to maintain a humble and open mind, giving my all to whatever role I'm given. This attitude has fostered my growth and ultimately led to greater achievements. Walking your own path without getting caught up in competition - that's the wisdom I've gained through experience.
