When someone newer to the business reaches a shared goal before you do, it can be demoralizing. A bout of envy is normal, it means you're human. No one is generously enlightened and kumbaya every minute of every day.
Staying in that space and allowing your jealousy to descend to bitterness is a mark of mediocrity.
Acknowledging that a tack different than yours worked and wasn't just a stroke of luck for your competitor is a mark of maturity.
Being willing to swallow your pride, reevaluate your own process, and make changes if necessary is a mark of excellence.
Originally published February 2012
