Every person’s goal in life is to succeed. Regardless of their goal, we want to achieve something. Making a sale, signing a contract, completing an around the house project, winning the game, hitting a golf ball straight (I’m still working on that one), or merely being better than our opponent. Often times the thrill of victory and agony of defeat are not viewed as equal. The winner seems to have won more, or did the loser loose more. Is it better to have made it to the finals and lost? Not even make it that far. Everyone has an opinion and I’ve heard many a conversation about the merits of each. However, here’s a take that kind of evens the playing field.
You can’t have reinforcement if there isn’t deprivation. A warm coat is wonderful on a snowy day, bitter cold day. If I offer that same coat to you in Texas on July 30th, I don’t believe you have the same appreciation. Offering you a full tank of gas, right after you’ve filled you car doesn’t carry the same benefit as that container brought to you on the side of the road as your car tank is void of fuel. Taking you to breakfast might sound great; a steak dinner on Thanksgiving after you’ve had your family meal - I think you’re going to pass. The point is, as each team celebrates a victory, which can only occur because there is a team that lost. So, both teams contributed to that experience. The feeling of competitive accomplishment is a manifestation of two components. The yin and yan of life. With each peak there is a valley. There is balance. Enjoy the victory, but don't wallow in defeat. REcognize the whole experience and appreciate that next time, if you are the "loser", you too were part of the content that contributed equally.
2 Comments
Andi Hearn
2/9/2016 05:03:26 am
Thank you Dave!
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Dave Force
2/9/2016 03:54:46 pm
Andi,,thank you for your comment and your continued support. There is something big happening soon...and I'll keep you posted!
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Dave ForceBehaviorist, teacher and researcher Dave Force offers 30 years of insights wrapped in an engaging and unforgettable presentation. Archives
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