THE CHINESE USE TWO BRUSH STROKES TO WRITE THE WORD “CRISIS.” ONE BRUSH STROKE STANDS FOR DANGER; THE OTHER FOR OPPORTUNITY. IN A CRISIS, BE AWARE OF THE DANGER – BUT RECOGNIZE THE OPPORTUNITY.

-RICHARD M. NIXON.

Another item that comes to mind is a motivational poster I used to keep in my office. It was a view of a beautiful ocean sunset seen through a hole in rock. The caption read: “Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off of the goal”.

I think both examples go directly to the heart of your question.

Opportunity is always available. “Difficulty”, “Danger” and “Obstacles” have a tendency to weed out the weak. Those strong enough to ignore the adversity will be rewarded at a level proportionate to the risk they are willing to take. When one enters that area of “Danger” they find themselves in a locale with very little competition. If there is no competition for the prize one is able to grab the whole thing reaping all the reward.

I hope you can use some of this. The assignment is fascinating. If you embrace the concept you will find yourself alone and if you are alone there will be no competition.