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Defining a Win



How many people take the time to really consider what a win looks like? I mean intentionally questioning what is truly important and deciding what defines a victory for the day, the month and the season in which they find themselves. And yes, even what constitutes a successful life.

We are constantly exposed to what others tell us winning should look like. It might be living in the biggest house on the block. Maybe it’s some new, foreign luxury car. It could be fame or a certain level of social status and notoriety. Perhaps it’s something more subtle, like having a certain net worth or being able to retire financially independent at an early age. While certainly there is nothing wrong with any of these things by themselves, they alone will hardly bring fulfillment and satisfaction. And yet, these are the icons of success we are told to chase. These are the criteria by which society has taught us to measure our progress.

What about the coach who has the chance to impact the lives of hundreds, maybe thousands of young athletes – possibly being the only true father figure some of them will ever know – and changing the trajectory of where they are headed? Or the school bus driver who, with an encouraging word or uplifting greeting, ensures every kid on her bus begins and ends each school day on a positive note? Or the janitor who not only takes pride in his work to create a clean, inviting environment where he works, but also makes a point to intentionally smile at every person who passes him by so that, if only for a moment, he can brighten their day.

A “win” takes on many different forms and will have separate and distinct meanings to various individuals. Yet, many of us have simply accepted the societal view of “winning” illustrated by the media and don’t give it a second thought. Even if they achieve what they thought they wanted, they are left empty and lost.

Make sure you know what a “win” looks like or you may find yourself following directions to a place where you don’t really want to be. And tragically, you may find yourself sacrificing that which is truly valuable in life to get there.  

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