In every competition, one person wins and one person loses. Losing is one of the few places in life where things are black and white. It is something that we will all inevitably experience. The difference, however lies in how each person chooses to deal with the experience. For some it is a self-fulfilling prophecy; for others, it ignites the fire that tempers their competitive steel.
In every case, losing is the single defining factor that separates the champions from the challengers: One uses it, and the other is used by it.
The true test of this theory takes place in the arena during a contest. If your method and training practices are effective, you will win. If they are not, you will lose. Therefore, losing in a sense points out the weaknesses in a competitor’s method, training, and strategy.
Whenever I lose a competition, I analyze my performance and assess its weaknesses. I then adjust my technique to correct the deficiencies. A loss should force you to change and improve your method, and with each correction you should move toward excellence.
It is sometimes difficult to be honest with yourself about your own deficiencies. That’s why you need to have a favorite teacher who highlights your weaknesses while ignoring your strengths. Although the comments may seem harsh, they are direct, honest, and realistic. They should quickly bring you back to the real world of your abilities and inabilities.
Losing, like any other habit, is developed as it is repeated. The more one loses, the more one grows comfortable with losing. You cannot afford to have an intimate relationship with losing in this business.
Christopher Truong is ranked the #2 competitor in the 1997 Top 25 Competitors Ranking. He is the owner of Glamour Nails and Training Academy in Chesapeake, Va.
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