Flying or Falling?

One would think that we could easily tell the difference between flying and falling.  As with many things, our ability to determine the trajectory depends on our perspective.  The Olympic ski jump events beautifully illustrate this.  When watching any of these incredible athletes compete, one has the image of them flying through the air.  Reality reveals that they are actually falling toward the bottom of the mountain.

It's the same sensation as we observe colleagues and competitors from a distance.  We don't actually know if they are soaring to new heights or about to descend.

When we compare ourselves with others, without knowing the facts, conditions and objectives, we may set unrealistic expectations. Though competition generally keeps us sharp, the only way we can ensure that we're moving in the right direction is to continually aim for our personal best.