A few years ago, a group I was with was really running it's course.  Some internal fighting, loss of the joy of gaming, etc was dragging everyone down.  A new team entered the area and really got things stirred up.  New ways of thinking, new tatics, new approaches.  It was refreshing.  We lost some members but gained new ones and it brought back the fire within.  It was either step up or step down time.  As a group, we stepped up and things have gotten better ever since.  I like it when there are quality people out there who are willing to try something new.  I like competiting on a higher level that pushes me to get creative, bold, and busts me out of my shell.

Often, it's people who spark me.  But I'm kinda easy.  Pride is my biggest sin.  All I need is a challenge that I find worthy and I'm off and running  It isn't the winning that is the biggest thrill for me, it's trying my best and putting my limits to the test.  If I can walk away with someone else as the winner and I can say "damn, that was a smart-ass move" I feel my time was well spent.  Learning and thinking outside the box is key for me.

What was it that sparked the fire?  You mentioned "competition"... was it a product, person, or something else that sparked your competitive spirit?  I love when people share these kind of posts because they also inspire me and keep the fire burning.