Solid stuff. I especially enjoyed "4. Occasionally look up, but only for inspiration." Competing is a tool like any other that can be used well or not. I consistently get my ass kicked in sports, music, etc. Because people are amazing. I use video and audio recordings to find ways to raise my game. I'll never beat the Norwegian National Team members in XC skiing or Chris Cornell in high note vocal quality, but the intrinsic rewards of a great journey are plenty.