When it comes to doing well in business, sometimes it takes a little competition to spice things up, to give you the edge.
There is a very famous ancient text that is based upon the principles of war craft that pretty much advocates doing all you possibly can to get one up on our opponent. Many business professionals have built their careers on this text, and while it doesn't suggest impaling your competitors with a spear, it does make it clear that business is a cold game.
Modern technology and communications have made it easy to see what other companies in your industry are doing, what they are good at, and how their business may affect yours. This is where the real business sense comes into it. When your competitor is doing well, concentrate on what they are doing well and examine how you could change what you do to make your firm look more attractive.
If, for example, you manage to get a look at their website, take the time to gauge public opinion. If there is the slightest sign of a customer making a comment about the service and how it can be improved, jump on it, and make that desired change part of what you do in your business.
For example, if the rival doesn't offer an email newsletter, and you find that the customers are asking for one, get one set up for your company immediately and get it out there. Make the new thing you do part of your advertising, and watch your own value as a company soar. People like companies that listen. That is how business works. To put it another way, if your competitor is not doing something right, make sure that you are.