Competition is a dangerous game to play, especially when we're trying to measure up.
It can be hard to trust the process, especially if we look around and see other people with similar or better results than we're getting.
Especially when they're doing what doesn't seem like the right thing.
It doesn't help that a good bit of success in life is random.
If you get a bit better everyday but also improve your process (exponential), while the world simply chugs along (linear), it might feel like this:
If you're a nerd (like me), the mathematical way to explain this is that linear and exponential equations look very similar at small enough time periods.
Early on, linear results are better than compounding results. 2x > x^2 when x < 2. Don't believe me?
But if you give things enough time:
Hence why trusting the process is hard. You need to be determined and have conviction that you're doing the right thing.
If you see an "expert" doing something ostensibly stupid, remind yourself that luck, selection bias, and compounding results are real.
Remind yourself that you know the right thing to do. Have confidence and conviction about your process. Don't stray from the path.