Some people can only compliment you when they’re sure they’re still ahead. Don’t be them.

Praise that depends on a scoreboard is really a status report. Some people are generous right up until you pass them, and the warmth cools in exact proportion to your success, which tells you the kindness was about their position rather than about you. That is worth noticing in others and far more worth noticing in yourself.

When somebody you compete with does well this week, say something good about it before you have finished processing how you feel. Be specific, and resist adding a qualifier. Being pleased for people who are beating you is rarer than talent.