SSometimes, I like losing more than winning. Don’t get me wrong, I’d like to think that I’m #bi-winning as much as the next guy, but I often learn more from my losses. Here’s why:
1) Losing brings introspection, winning attracts the sycophants. Whenever I lose anything that I’ve wanted to win, I try not to allow myself any time to feel sorry for myself. Rather, I compare my efforts and methodologies to the winner’s, and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to win. In other words, it motivates me to work harder. I never do this when I win – my ego takes over. I’m surrounded by people who congratulate me and tell me how smart I am. I start believing this, and I get lazy.
2) I’m a sore loser. I’m ultra-competitive. I’m the dad that sons hate to compete against because everything is a race. And sometimes, that’s not cool. I need a reminder every so often that we need to enjoy the journey as well. I’ll take a loss to remind me of this, and to become a more gracious competitor.
3) Sometimes, the things that matter don’t come with awards and recognition. Each and every day, I meet everyday heroes that do amazing things, but are never recognized for it. I also meet people that win awards for superficial achievements. Invariably, I like the former much more than the latter. There’s something in the attitude of people who do what’s right, vs. the people whose success comes a little too easily.
4) Anything of value that I’ve won were preceeded by losses. My sweetest victories in life never came easily – I’ve had to work my ass for them. I never got it right on the first try.
This little nugget of self-indulgent philosophy is dedicated to all the students who competed in the SIFE Nationals competition, especially those that didn’t win. You have dedicated yourself to making your community a better place; you’re doing your part to change the world. Please continue to do this, even when you graduate and leave SIFE behind. When I look at the amazing contributions from the thousands of students across Canada, I am humbled. I encourage every student that “lost” to stand proud, and embrace this loss.
SIFE sends Canada’s best team – this year, it’s Memorial University – to the SIFE world championships, and they’re going to do a fantastic job of representing Canada.
Shout-out goes to the SIFE MRU team at Mount Royal University, who I had the chance to mentor this year. They did an amazing job, and it will only get better next year. Also, I loved the story and passion that came from the SIFE Windsor team, where my MBA strategy prof, Dr. Allan Conway, is the dean of the Odette School of Business.
Patrick Lor 