Got a competitive Edge? Do you play fair, or do you demand to win at any price? See how you measure up with our quiz

Shape, March, 2005 by Allison Winn Scotch

7 Your best friend dropped 15 pounds and looks better than ever. You:

a. hit the gym until you ache--you're determined to look hotter.

b. drown your jealousy in some Ben & Jerry's ice cream.

c. pass her number out to your cute male co-workers.

Instant insight "Our society greatly emphasizes physical presentation, particularly for women," Dahlkoetter says. "The way a woman is viewed by others most often determines the relationship she has with herself, which makes her prone to constantly comparing herself." So how do you stop? Try boosting your inner strength, Dahlkoetter advises: "The greater one's self-esteem, the less need there is to gain someone else's approval." OK, so your friend lost weight. Focus on what you've gained in life, rather than the pounds that you (or anyone else) have lost. That's how you really win.

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If you answered mostly A's, you:

Play to win You're a textbook example of a competitor who defines herself by winning. Rather than aiming to whip others, aim to compete with yourself. Top athletes don't just focus on beating their competitors; they strive for their personal bests. Make this your goal. Letting go of the need to control each situation and instead concentrating on the need to control your role in each circumstance will free you from the stress and anxiety that comes from having to be numero uno all the time.

If you answered mostly B's, you:

Need to get in the game You already take the time to stop and smell the roses. But that might be just about all you do. Competitive drive, in and of itself, isn't a negative quality. It can spur you to better results and higher self-esteem. Try to home in on what's important to you--such as a better tennis game or stronger public-speaking skills--and push yourself to be the best you can be in that specific area.

If you answered mostly C's, you:

Have a competitive clue You're a team player who knows when to up the ante and, conversely, take it down a notch. While you thrive on competition, it doesn't rule your life. Because of this healthy mix, you're able to ascend the success ladders in a variety of areas. Winning, as you know, is only half the battle. How you get there matters too.

Allison Winn Scotch is a New York City-based health writer who used to love beating her husband at tennis ... but now lets him win every once in a while.