Antonio Banderas on the American competitive mindset: “It’s a very American thing”
The Spanish actor, who spent years working in the U.S., shared his firsthand experience with this cultural obsession.
Competitiveness is a highly valued trait in many aspects of life, from sports to the workplace and academia. It reflects an internal drive to constantly improve, overcome challenges, and achieve ambitious goals, often in comparison to others.
However, beyond being an individual trait, competitiveness is also deeply ingrained in certain national cultures, largely shaped by early education systems. The United States is a prime example of this mindset, where the desire to be the best is a source of pride and an undeniable part of daily life.
Even Antonio Banderas, one of Spain’s most internationally recognized actors, highlighted this cultural phenomenon during a recent press event. He spoke about the competitive nature of Americans and their obsession with being number one:
“That North American urge to be number one above all else, you feel it even in small towns. Who’s the most important person in town? Who’s the prettiest? It’s a very American thing, and I lived it firsthand for many years.”
How to develop a competitive mindset
For those looking to adopt a competitive mindset, in a healthy way, like Americans, here are some key strategies:
- Set clear, achievable, and measurable goals to track progress and celebrate milestones.
- Focus on learning and self-improvement, rather than simply defeating others.
- Embrace failure as an opportunity to grow, rather than a reason to give up.
A balanced competitive mindset should prioritize personal growth over comparison, ensuring that ambition remains motivational rather than destructive.
Related stories
Follow MeriStation USA on X (formerly known as Twitter). Your video game and entertainment website for all the news, updates, and breaking news from the world of video games, movies, series, manga, and anime. Previews, reviews, interviews, trailers, gameplay, podcasts and more! Follow us now!
Complete your personal details to comment