I think it is most important for the person at hand to believe in
themselves, whether they make a competition or not, as long as they
know they are improving there is hope. One is only as good as one
believes his/herself able to become.

It is most about self-image, and self-actualization. While you can
believe that you are number one, without sufficient work and and
pushing as hard as you can, you cannot be number one in the eyes of
others. I myself am among the weakest competitors, but I am proud of
what I have been able to accomplish in a few years! While not
everyone can become the next best tuba or euphoniumist, we can all
enjoy what we are capable of. :)