Competence and Control

We put our lives on hold to train, compete and win (Olympics, ironman) for the reward of feeling competent and successful. Entrepreneurs and scientists are relentless in the pursuit of solving a problem or making a discovery that is more about success than a financial reward. We purchase luxury cars and expensive homes as a symbol to ourselves and others that we are a success. Yes, we regretfully play video games till 2am to beat our high score or speed up to not let people pass us in the next lane.

From when we are very young, we are constantly saying "I can do that" or "Let me try". We want to not only prove our competence, we want to have control. We get frustrated when we have to rely on people that don't always come through. While we need desire Love and Connections and know we sometime require Support, we value our independence. It may be demonstrated through dignity (a senior citizen staying in their own home) or pride (being proud of what you accomplished).

Competence and Success is a component of personal well-being.