The greatest in any activity or endeavor has experienced pain. We focus on the accomplishments and achievements of those who succeed, yet when we look closely at them, we understand that they experienced losses and some even of significance. In most instances, though, we can reflect and admire the accomplishments above all else.
In sports, the statistics are immense. Phil Jackson has lost almost 500 games yet holds 11 championship rings as a coach. Lionel Messi has lost 12 championships but has won another 25. Many of those we admire as achievers in business, society, and warfare has a long list of failures than triumphs. Yet, because of their resolve, we enjoy the fruits each day and even our freedom.
If they had failed and had not tried again, we could not talk about it. If they had chosen not to attempt because they feared failure itself, there would be no discussion. All who have achieved overcame hardships and, through tenacity and purpose, overcame adversity.
Those who coach appreciate that in losing, we often find our best moments of learning. It is difficult to gain the attention of individuals and even ourselves when we are winning, dominating, and in our supreme state. Why would we believe that we are not infallible? We have won- why would that not continue? While we may not have been perfect, we were the best.
If we are consistently winning, we may ask, ‘Are we playing in the league worthy of our skill?’
Losing is our friend. From there, we can realize how we can improve and be better. But, again, it is our choice to accept losing as our destiny or not.
“I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I’ve been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Michael Jordan.
