Win, lose or draw

You prepared and rehearsed, committed 100%, and had your acceptance speech ready. It went better than hoped, didn't miss a beat, and every word rang true. When it was done, you acknowledged the audience, smiled, and waited in anticipation. But then, when the moment came as you had planned, you did not get exactly what you wanted.

Or did you?

Winners do not always claim top prize. Sometimes they claim no prize at all. At least, not one you can put on any mantle or hang on any wall or file away for posterity's sake.

That is not to say that winning is of no value, as those who have hardware will attest to - including me. And that is not to say that not winning doesn't hurt, as those who miss out on the hardware will attest to - including me.

However, over the years of doing and trying and wishing and hoping, I have come to the conclusion that whether you win, lose or draw, there is something more to be gained from the entire experience, something even bigger than the accolades and commiserations, the futherance and the frustration, the camaraderie and the rivalry. Something inside that no one else can measure but us.

And for me, that is knowing. Knowing it was my personal best, but could have been even better. Knowing what the next step is, and where else I have to go. Knowing that perfection is not what matters, but always aiming in that direction is. Knowing that I am cookie dough and I am not done yet.

You see, I believe that if you know all that - and know that it all applies equally whether you win, lose or draw - that is how you hold on to your passion, stay true to your goals, maintain your power, and find exactly what you need to keep you moving along whatever course you have set for yourself.

Win, lose or draw - do you know where it will take you?