Why is it that when someone around us succeeds incredibly, our instinct is to recoil? Almost react defensively that this great accomplishment is not so great. When this happens, we are simply choosing the illusion of separateness over community. In truth, because we are all one – when one benefits, we all benefit.
For a more concrete example, your neighbor down the block sold their house for 2 times their asking price. Through clenched teeth, you congratulate them. Stepping back, you are not selling your house – why are not celebrating? Zooming out further, your house value just skyrocketed! Your ex-neighbor just bestowed a high-priced gift to the whole neighborhood! In short, everyone wins!
Often we hesitate to celebrate others success because of what that would say about ourselves. Should I be selling my house too? Would my house sell that much if I did that? Could I succeed in the same way as my neighbor? We engage in self-reflection disguised as competition.
Because in a true competition, only one individual wins. However, in life, when someone succeeds from finding innovative solutions to the fuel crisis to best dressed in high school to selling their home for a whole boatload of money, everyone wins. Further, you win because maybe you just discovered some new life goal you desire to achieve.
When looking at the naysayers and criticizers, are they the ones achieving great things as well? Or are they just gossiping about others? Throwing neighbors down so they may feel tall. As they say, “Small minds discuss people. Average minds discuss events. Great minds discuss ideas.” Utilizing this great mind concept, how might your partner’s, friend’s, or neighbor’s accomplishment benefit you?! That is an idea worth exploring!
Not only do we sell ourselves short when reacting with inferiority, we deny ourselves a chance to shine in someone else’s light. Further, applaud their light. It is a huge act of vulnerability to selflessly support others. Often reacting in negativity when someone shares something great, we retreat into our shadow.
Further, I believe we have all been on the receiving side of a light dimmer or even light snuffers. Perhaps as a child, you had something great to share with a classmate, and they blew your light out. Your excitement vanished. They snatched your shine. And you were left confused and hurt. Take an opportunity to protect the lights of those you love. Encourage their shine.
Affirmations: When you succeed, I light up. I am inspired by the magic and majesty of our world. I applaud others accomplishments because when the world improves, I improve. My light is sacred and I choose to protect it, honor it, and share it with the world. I honor my place in the global community.