I've seen for a long time that when competition takes place, there's either a constructive or destructive way to participate.

The constructive way is to build a better product. The destructive way is to tear down the competitor.

The constructive way is better for everyone involved. The destructive method is generally cheaper, more effective, and can guarantee victory.

You see this in politics. Person A makes great plans to fix a problem. Competitor B makes better plans. Competitor C goes after inappropriate behavior A&B participated in during highschool.

You can see this in the workplace as well. Devaluing your opponent instead of raising your value above yours.

Here's where it ties in to Oneitis. The best cure seems to be the destructive method. Illuminate their flaws and risks and failures as a panacea against your own foolish interest in them.

But is there a constructive method? Making yourself better plays counter to it. Looking for someone better isn't an improvement it's an exacerbation of the same situation.

Is there a constructive way to deal with Oneitis?

I say yes, but it is impersonal. You have to set a desired goal greater than "the one", and almost always exclusive from "the one".

These are thoughts, add yours.