Jealousy as a Tool

I wrote recently about using all our tools in the toolbox when we compete.

Well, sometimes situations occur "around" us that also can be used as tools.

One example, is jealousy. 

Everyone has felt it, if you play pool, or in any type of sport.  But obviously I'll focus on pool.

What's weird about jealousy in pool is that it actually MOTIVATES you. 

When most people think of "jealousy," they relate it to relationships on some level.  Either the attention to your significant other, or jealousy after a break up, etc.

Well, you can't do much about those feelings of jealousy except have more confidence, or build your confidence.

But in sports, in pool, you CAN do something about it.

When you see a fellow player about your speed start to excel, or start to be in the winner's circle more, or simply even place higher in an event more often, you can sometimes get jealous.  This person can be a close friend, a rival, or just someone you barely know.  But, you NOTICE that you were once on the same playing level, but they have improved and are getting better.

What does this do?  It creates motivation inside you.

You start to practice more.  Or learn by reading books or watching videos.

Maybe you start to gamble to get better or play in tough weekly tournaments more.

We all want to improve on some level, but when we feel jealousy because of someone else, for whatever reason it can light a little fire in us and it pumps us up to want to improve!

It's a clever little thing that not many people even realize is happening inside of them.  They just FEEL the jealousy pains, and do something about it because let's face it, jealousy is not a good feeling.

I'm not saying everyone is jealous or everyone acts on those feelings, but I am saying if you do, it's normal.  I have used it in the past as motivation to improve my game.  Nothing wrong with using this tool in your toolbox, as well!