jobo
Grandmaster
using your level as a,guide as to what to learn next is the same as wearing you level round your waist.I've never run into much of that problem, though I've heard many who don't like belts/ranks out it forth as an issue with them. To me, it's a lot like someone saying MMA breeds bullies. Those in MMA don't experience much of that.
Most people use their belt/next rank as a guideline of what to focus on, and nothing more. They know what is required to reach the next rank, and that's where they focus effort. If the rank requirements are well-designed, this works in the student's favor. It would be no different (to them) if there was no rank, and they were simply given guidance as to what to focus on.
its just not common in sports or pass times.
i wouldnt turn up at a pool tournnent with all my trophies or if i did people would make fun of me, much like i am here