21 January 2024 , 09:00
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Nearly a quarter of Londoners (24%) would consider themselves competitive, a study has found – with 23% going as far as to admit they can be a poor loser.
More than a tenth of those in the capital (11%) won't even let their children win at board games, while 27% consider it essential that they top the leaderboard when playing video games.
And if they find themselves not winning a light-hearted challenge or game, 14% will demand a rematch, until the result comes out in their favour. In fact, 41% of Londoners reckon that coming in second place as just as bad as finishing in last.
Meanwhile, the nationwide survey of 2,000 adults found that the West Midlands (23%), and the North East (22%), ironically, just missed out on being named the most competitive UK regions.
And on the other hand, Yorkshire, the South West, and the South East, are the most laid-back areas in the country.
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The research was commissioned by Online Betting Guide (OLBG), whose spokesman said: “A little competitiveness is a good thing, and can be a good way to learn how you work under pressure.
“It’s interesting to see how many people don’t deal well with defeat, and I wonder how many colleagues realise they’re in a subliminal competition with their peers.
“Studies have shown that healthy competition can boost performance and happiness, and you can actually find people to be their most confident when they’re on the road to holding the trophy.”
The results found 17% of the Welsh say sporting events are one of the areas in which they most wish to triumph – and 28% admit they struggle being the runner-up.
Meanwhile, of the 59% of North-Western respondents, 14% say they’re most eager to succeed when it comes to their friends and partners.
And after losing a light-hearted game or challenge, 56% of Scots say their first response is to congratulate the winners. However, 17% of those in the South-East would need a moment to calm down and process.
And one in 10 of those in the capital would not even let their children win at board games (Getty Images)It also emerged that one in three people in the North East admit they will try to make a game out of things that don’t even require a winner or loser – like who can scan items at the supermarket quickest.
More than a third (35%) say they prefer working alone than in a group, according to the overall nationwide results. And the main reason for this is so that they can concentrate and not worry about others (47%) – while 16% claim they know exactly how things need to be done.
More than three in 10 (31%) admit their tense nature has even got them into squabbles with their squad – with 67% saying they were only “partially” to blame.
For 56% of those polled, via OnePoll, there must always be a winner and a loser – and 77% agree that a little competitiveness is a good thing.
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The spokesman from OLBG added: “A healthy feud can often make or break a relationship, so it’s no surprise that many get into little tiffs with the opposite teams – and, in many cases, people who are on the same side.
“Whatever role you play in the group, it’s a good idea to play to each other’s strengths. That way, everyone feels comfortable, and can have their moment to shine.”
TOP FIVE MOST COMPETITIVE REGIONS:
- London
- North East
- West Midlands
- Wales
- North West
TOP FIVE LEAST COMPETITIVE REGIONS:
- Yorkshire
- South West
- South East
- Scotland
- East of England