What is the best way to deal with people who think everything is a competition?

[Anonymous]

I have a cousin who is younger then me and he has this competitive steak. He managed to do amazing things such as get car, a house, great job and get married. Where as for me life hasn't been as easy. I'm working on getting my drivers license as I am scared of driving , I'm attempting to get a job with degrees and I'm 32 and single and female. I am trying but I keep thinking any family get togethers he's going to be walking around like he's the big I am. I am happy for him but I don't like the way he carries himself. I don't know how to deal with this type of person. With my older cousins, they have done the same things but they don't carry on like this.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

It sounds like you believe everything is a competition and you’re projecting this mindset onto your cousin because you think he’s beating you and talking about his life is somehow rubbing it in your face.

[Asker]

I'm not. He's been like this since we were kids. Asking me to race him. When ever a picture was taken he pushes his way in front. Always trying to find out what I am doing. I have older cousins and they don't carry on like this and they have partners, houses, cars and even kids... they are more humble.

[CupcakeTheDestroyer]

So why are you taking it personally if he’s still acting like a child when you’re both grown?

[Cutegirl06]

Tell them that the only person you're in competition with is yourself.

[DaBiggestBird]

Ignore them, giving them the attention they so desperately desire shows you don’t have better things to do. Focus on yourself and becoming awesome.

[Nikki1989]

Don't let their competitiveness distract you from your own objectives.

[Danny_dan92]

Beat them (not literally)