Factors Contributing to Increased Competitiveness

This section of the commentary explores additional reasons for the growing sense of competitiveness in society, particularly focusing on changes in the workforce and career aspirations.

One significant factor highlighted is the increased participation of women in the workforce. The author argues that this has led to more people competing for top positions in various professions.

Example: The commentary mentions mothers who, instead of solely focusing on childcare, are now pursuing careers and even starting their own businesses with aspirations of becoming industry leaders.

The essay also touches on changing priorities among women, noting that some are choosing to focus on their careers rather than having children. This shift is presented as another aspect of the increasing competitiveness in society, with more individuals dedicating themselves to professional success.

Highlight: The author emphasizes that the desire to be the best in one's field has become a driving force for many, leading to increased competition in the job market.

Another point raised is the changing attitudes towards business ownership and success. The commentary suggests that in the past, people were often content with running small, local businesses. However, there's now a growing ambition to expand and become industry leaders, further fueling the competitive spirit.

Quote: "Everyone and everything needs to be faster, bigger and better. Everyone wants to be at the top."

This shift in mindset is presented as a key factor in the increasing sense of competitiveness that characterizes modern society, particularly as Generation Z enters the workforce.

Early Exposure to Competition in Education

This page focuses on how the competitive mindset is instilled from an early age, particularly through the education system. The author argues that this early exposure to competition is one of the most significant factors contributing to the overall increase in societal competitiveness.

Highlight: The commentary emphasizes that the sense of competitiveness is learned from childhood, beginning as early as kindergarten.

The essay details how children are evaluated for school readiness at a young age, expected to have basic reading, writing, and math skills before entering primary school. This early assessment is presented as the beginning of a lifelong journey of comparison and competition.

Example: The author mentions that children are expected to read, write, and calculate by the age of six, setting the stage for future academic competition.

The commentary then describes how this competitive environment intensifies throughout the school years. Students are constantly graded, compared to their peers, and face pressure to perform well to secure better educational and career opportunities.

Quote: "You always get compared to other students, so you start to learn how to live with this sense of competitiveness."

A critical point in this competitive journey is highlighted at around age ten (fourth grade in many systems), where students face decisions that can impact their future academic paths. The author suggests that this early tracking system further reinforces the competitive nature of education and society.

Vocabulary: Generation Z Arbeitsmoral (work ethic of Generation Z) is indirectly addressed through the discussion of early academic pressure and competition.

The essay also touches on the societal implications of this system, suggesting that academic achievement is increasingly linked to social status and perceived value in society. This perspective adds another layer to the growing sense of competitiveness that characterizes the experiences of Generation Z.

Reflections on Competitiveness and Future Outlook

In the final section, the author reflects on the implications of the increasing competitiveness in society and offers some thoughts on potential ways forward. They question the necessity and benefits of always striving to be the best, suggesting that a more balanced approach might lead to a more relaxed and fulfilling life.

Quote: "Well, I am satisfied with that situation I am right now in."

The commentary encourages readers to consider whether constant competition is truly necessary. It suggests that accepting one's current situation and finding contentment could lead to a more relaxed lifestyle.

Highlight: The author emphasizes the importance of teaching children that it's not always necessary to be number one, challenging the prevailing competitive mindset.

The essay concludes with a warning about the potential consequences of an overly competitive society. The author suggests that if the current trend continues, we may reach a point where everyone is in constant competition with each other.

Quote: "One day, we all will be competitors."

This final statement serves as both a prediction and a caution, urging readers to reflect on the direction society is taking and consider the long-term implications of the increasing competitiveness that characterizes Generation Z and modern society as a whole.

Vocabulary: Was kommt nach Generation Z (What comes after Generation Z) is indirectly addressed through the author's concerns about the future of societal competitiveness.

The commentary ends with a call for balance, suggesting that while competition can drive progress, it's equally important to foster cooperation, contentment, and a more relaxed approach to life and success.