Today's Food For Thought: Are You Winning The Race Of Your Life?

"Run the race of life set for you with all your very best."
― Lailah Gifty Akita

So often, we convince ourselves that falling in love with winning is sexy. We sometimes pressure ourselves to win some earth-shattering race that everyone will talk about.

In today's world, we are constantly encouraged to do more, achieve more, and be more. Experts tell us, "anyone can win." Coaches say to their teams, "just go out there and win!"

But is winning really what determines our success? Is it the right way to measure our value?

The race of your life is not always getting first place or making headlines. It's about the journey towards success.

Why We Like Winning

Nothing beats the feeling of winning. Why? Because being "first" seems like an acknowledgment for all the effort. 

The idea of winning is attractive and winning boosts self-confidence. We plan, train, focus, believe, try again and again, and sometimes are rewarded when we win. 

Winning can also shape our lives in a more positive direction. An exciting study also showcased that winning can lead to living a longer life. 

What Matters Is The Journey

Winning isn't everything; it doesn't always equate to personal growth. 

Life is made up of several races in different terrain. There are races for money and fame, and some run after prestige.

We define our "races we must win" to survive as making a decent living, seeking kindness, and remaining calmest in the face of anger or despair. There is a race focused on friendship or how good they are at deriving simple pleasure from watching the sunset, chasing rainbows, and enjoying the fall foliage. 

What matters is the journey towards success. In the long run, winning and losing can become part of the same ideal.

It's not whether you are winning at something; more important is the desire to grow and be better every day.

Include Others In Your Race Of Life

Let's face it – no matter who you are or what life you were born into, life will throw you some curve balls. The unexpected will happen, and when it does, you will be tested in ways you can't even begin to imagine.

Even in the darkest and direst of situations, there is always a measure of light. Focus on the good and hold onto it. If you and a loved one are facing the slow, steady onset of a disease that has no cure, then know from day one that you're facing it together. And make every moment count.  

Find a way to summon up the courage and fortitude to beat back the rising tide you feel and get past it. Have faith, as faith is more significant than fear.

Most people list family and friends when asked to name the best things in life, and winning hardly ever is mentioned. That is because, for us humans, building relationships is crucial to our well-being. Real human interaction gives our lives added meaning.

Getting first place is no fun when you are alone on the podium. Even if your journey takes more time and effort, getting on top alongside your loved ones makes a path to winning extraordinary and memorable. 

Enjoy the journey to success. And remember this.....

"An open heart is an open mind." ~ Dalai Lama