Is it better to have an idol or an opposition.
With an idol, you have something to aspire to, but what happens when you reach that point? With an opposition, you would both constantly strive to be better. Maybe both are important…
If you set yourself a goal, and then have the will and the drive to work towards meeting that goal, you are more likely to achieve it.
You could sit by and do nothing, but if you don’;t put anything in, you can guess what you get out 
I prefer having an opposition in order to become an idol for others.
I see your thinking