Call Me Crazy

Call me crazy, but I like structure. That is not to say that I don't like to break the rules once in awhile, and I am certainly capable, and often do, think outside the box. With that being said, I am someone who needs to know when deadlines are, when I am going somewhere, hell, I even get nervous sometimes if I don't know what I'm going to eat for dinner. That may be a bit on the extreme side, but you all understand my point. In a world as crazy and as unpredictable as this, having guidelines as a frame of reference is comforting.
Unfortunately, it also leads us to competition however. In college, we are graded not only for our work, but against others. We are constantly being compared to someone or something, and our merits never stand up on their own. If you don't agree yet, answer this. What feels better, getting an A on a test, or getting the highest grade in the class? Sure the A feels great on its own, but knowing that you were the best among an entire group of people feels infinitely better.
Some may say that this system hurts our own process, as we are working not for personal fulfillment, but for praise, but I say that it could lead us to both. Knowing that I have to work my butt off to get the highest grade in a class, I'll never work harder. The need to be the best will help me reach my full potential. I understand that not everyone has that drive and can go with the flow, but that isn't in my DNA. I am not hardwired to have a relaxed personality towards accomplishing goals. Okay, or good enough, isn't good enough for me. I want everyone including myself to do what makes them happy. I don't want to waste a single day working on something that I am not 100% passionate about. With that goal in mind, I plan to work to achieve it. I can be happy and competitive about my passions, and all it takes is a little structure!