Episode 78: Compete Better | Break Free from Comparison & Win the Right Game with Jake Thompson

Episode Snapshot:

What if competition isn’t the problem—but how we’ve been taught to compete is? In this episode, Dr. Katie sits down with Jake Thompson to challenge the “me vs. you” mindset and explore how competing with yourself can unlock growth, confidence, and fulfillment. 

Summary:

Competition often gets a bad reputation—triggering comparison, self-doubt, and the constant pressure to measure up. But what if competition was never meant to be about beating others in the first place?

In this conversation, Jake Thompson, founder of Compete Every Day, reframes competition as an internal pursuit—one rooted in growth, intentionality, and becoming better than you were yesterday. Together, Katie and Jake unpack how comparison can either hold us back or fuel our growth, depending on how we use it. They explore why so many of us tie our worth to outcomes we can’t control, and how shifting our focus to daily inputs can change everything.

From redefining success to building your own “personal scoreboard,” this episode is a powerful reminder that the goal isn’t to win against others—it’s to show up, do the work, and compete for the life you actually want.

Key Learnings:

• Competition isn’t about beating others—it’s about striving toward growth and improvement.

• Comparison can be harmful or helpful depending on how you frame/use it.

• Most people focus too much on outcomes, instead of the daily inputs that create them.

• Clarity is everything—when you know the game you’re playing, you stop chasing someone else’s. 

• Growth comes from consistency and intentionality, not quick wins or “secret formulas”.

Resources:

• Jake’s website: https://www.jakeathompson.com/

• Compete Every Day Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/0o4cJkMH3OBBb5NmJ6Ij7J

Guest Info:

Jake Thompson is a speaker, coach, and founder of Compete Every Day, where he helps individuals and teams redefine competition by focusing on continuous personal growth. His work challenges the traditional “me vs. you” mindset, empowering people to compete with themselves, build stronger habits, and pursue meaningful, lasting success.