Thanks for your deep comment, that's been quite interesting to read!
Actually, in many cultures, and due to certain kinds of motivation at childhood, success is all about being ahead of others.
I love the American concept where success is something 100% positive and apetecible. Also being proud of one's achievements is a completely natural habit among Americans. That's even a great approach from a psychological point of view: if you're in an environment where success is something everybody's striving for and where people are celebrated for, then this is per se very motivational.
I've never been part of an environment where success was a priviledge reserved for a few. In my family we push each other and are incredibly happy for everything one of us accomplishes. I actually couldn't imagine it to be differently...
For those who measure their success by emotional or financial rewards, the more others are successful the less rewards are left to them such as money and attention.
I don't know where the idea comes from that success requires taking aways something from someone else. From my point of view, it's a completely counterproductive approach.
Again, thanks for stopping by and leaving your thoughts! That was quite enlightening.