LibraryScenariosHow comparison ruins athletic enjoyment
Scenario

How comparison ruins athletic enjoyment

I love running but I only feel good about myself when I'm faster than other people and it's making me hate something that used to bring me joy.

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More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

External validation transforms intrinsic pleasure into conditional self-worth.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Sport and physical competition?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.