The overdrive of Competition isn’t all bad — but let’s start with the downsides, because that’s what tends to show up most often.

Overdrive here means the focus shifts from the task or outcome to the person themself — proving they’re right, doing it their way, on their terms.

We saw a great example of how Competition can be both overdriven and well used at a client company. A colleague was involved in evaluating job applications. During interviews, they met candidates they might have competed with at other companies. Observing others’ strengths and weaknesses — as well as different working styles — sparked something in them. They’d never been motivated to “compete with themselves” before, but this outside perspective encouraged real self-development.

In coaching, we recommend focusing on two lenses: the task and the person. Is the task important and impactful in the long run? And from the human side — what’s the quality of your working relationship? Does your approach fit with the other person’s strengths and communication style? We often rewind situations like a film, frame by frame, to identify behavioural patterns. When overdrive is hurting outcomes, we look for ways to channel the energy of Competition into something positive.