The truth is, we're living in constant competition, with people striving to prove their success and worthiness of attention.
I first came across the concept of "The Rat Race" about six years ago. It profoundly shifted my perspective on life and has shaped my decisions ever since.
The rat race works like this: you get your first job, your income grows, and so do your expenses. You start thinking, "If I just got this promotion, then I could do this and that."
But what happens when you actually get that promotion? Your income increases, and so do your expenses. And with that, you’re officially stuck in the rat race loop.
The rat race is the endless pursuit of a bigger house, a newer car, a higher income. Is there anything wrong with wanting material things? Not at all. It becomes a problem, though, when you put your happiness on hold until you achieve the next goal.
The danger is in believing that you’ll only be happy once you reach the next milestone. And once you do, there's always another, and so on.
Now, at 24, most of my peers have graduated, started working, and entered their own rat races. They showcase their skills, the prestige of their companies, and begin comparing themselves based on job status, potential, and pay.
When I first read about the rat race, there was a sentence that stayed with me: "The only way to win the rat race is to quit it." It didn’t fully make sense until I saw how true it was in real life.
For me, quitting the rat race means no longer seeking validation or applause, no longer comparing myself to others. I have my own goals, plans, and timelines aligned with my values, rather than competing to prove I'm socially "successful."
As long as I feel content and fulfilled, I don't worry about how others are doing or where they stand. I'm on my unique path, working toward goals that truly matter to me, even if they're different from others'.
I’m not sure if this resonates with you, but to sum it up: the best thing you can do is avoid comparing yourself to others and don’t wait for happiness until the “next thing.” The moment you get it, you’ll already be thinking of what’s next.
Enjoy life as you go, set your own goals, and remember your uniqueness. You don’t need to rank yourself against anyone else.