If you subscribe to the philosophical views of Reese Bobby, father of Ricky Bobby in Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, you would agree "if you're not first, you're last." Most wouldn't agree with the statement because it is illogical. But isn't it also illogical to be happier finishing in 3rd place than 2nd? In a study of the medal stand at the Olympics, it was found that bronze medalists were actually happier than those who received silver. It was explained away that the silver medalists compared themselves to gold medalists, while bronze medalists were more likely to compare themselves to the numerous people who didn't medal.
I think that most of us take the silver medalist position, and tend to compare ourselves to those above us in the rankings. "Man, I wish I had clothes like him." "I'd be satisfied if I had her salary." "Why can't I fast like he is?" It is great to want to improve, gain or advance, but we go wrong when in the search for more we forget that we already have something more than someone else.
Life is not all or nothing, best or worst, or (as Reese Bobby eventually figured out) first or last. My advice: When you look below, be thankful for what you have. When you look above, seek tips you can use to improve, but past that- don't worry about who has something more or better than you have. Love being you.
