Avoiding time complexity issues in competitive programming is crucial to ensure your code runs within the given limits. Start by analyzing the problem constraints, as they often hint at the optimal time complexity required. For example, if the input size is large, an O(n^2) or higher solution may be too slow, indicating the need for an O(n log n) or O(n) approach. Choosing efficient algorithms, such as binary search, hash maps for fast lookups, or dynamic programming for overlapping subproblems, can make a big difference. Additionally, select data structures suited to the problem’s needs—using sets for unique items, heaps for prioritized tasks, or trees for hierarchical data. Regular practice with analyzing and optimizing solutions builds intuition for selecting the best approach. By staying mindful of time complexity from the start and refining your understanding of efficient algorithms, you can effectively handle large inputs in competitive programming.