Can’t We All Just Get Along? – Respectful Competition

As an Oakland Raiders (and Athletics) fan, I know what it’s like to be disappointed. I love my team, but let’s admit it, we’ve had some rough seasons. What makes it even worse is friends getting in your face about it.

I’ve found myself rooting against teams just because my friends (that are clearly against my team) are wearing their jersey. Well, it’s time to step up and say, “I’m tired of it!” Can’t we all just get along and like our own teams in peace?

It’s always fun to support your team, but what about your friends?

Here are some tips on how to be competitive in a respectful way:

1. Don’t get in anyone’s face. It’s always fun when your team has scored, is winning, etc., but respectfully cheer for your team and don’t say anything bad about the other.

2. Walk away if something bad happens in the game that you are going to overreact about. No one plays a perfect game every time, so get up, take a deep breath and relax.

3. Don’t hate just because your friend is. It isn’t always a good idea to follow the crowd. Have your own opinion and don’t put anyone down just for the sake of putting them down.

4. After a win, don’t post on social media about how another team lost. Support your team and be a true fan!

No one likes to be put down for something they can’t control. So remember, keep calm, and be respectful. All that being said… Let’s go Oakland!

For a deeper understanding on why people are so competitive visit this Psychology Today article or to learn more about competitive friends read this CBS article.

sports team rivalry
A little team rivalry between friends. Photo credit: Catriona Lund