I constantly encourage my young ones to play nicely and get along with other kids, but I think just about everyone they know should act as a rival.
That’s not to be confused with an enemy, but as someone who can push you to compete harder and have some conviction.
Rivalry benefits both parties, as it motivated them to push through beyond their usual capacity. You can’t just go out and find a new rival these days, but a friend or lifting buddy can be found! Not too long ago, I found a new “rival”, which is someone I haven’t even seen since high school. My rival is my personal trainer, believe it or not! She constantly tries to push my limits, and I constantly try to prove to her I don’t have any limits to bust! I have used other personal trainers in the past, though many of them over the years have not brought the intensity that I need. This is the first time I’ve certainly locked horns with my trainer though, as the personal trainer gets more than adequately compensated while understanding that they’re the one in control. This trainer – this rival of mine – there’s no rulebook that she follows. She treats every fitness session as if she is trying to break me in two, and that’s exactly what encourages me to go even harder on each session! The results are amazing, I must say. I am pushing myself to the level of a college athlete now, and I’m so much happier with my results! Working out doesn’t feel like a chore anymore, either. I’ve never had a personal trainer quite like her, who could get me fired up about working out!