Last night, for instance, found me swearing, kicking a fence twice, taking my jersey off and yelling at referees during an intramural football game against some friends and softball teammates. My competitiveness isn’t at all a new phenomenon. I’ve always been competitive. In elementary school, this led to some extremely non-fun lectures from my parents… It hasn’t gone away, though I’ve made a conscious effort to address it, especially after I have my annual kick the fence tirade each season in softball intramurals.
This season has been better, though the Michael’s on my team have had to calm me down a couple times (but I never let my competitive spirit get the best of me, like last night). Last night should have been different. Because I realized it at halftime. I even gave a little speech to my teammates where I promised to be better and to lead by example. I failed. This team was A-league worthy and we’re in B-League, yes. However, it doesn’t give me the excuse to behave how I did. As a team captain, I have to lead by example. Tom Landry, a great former NFL coach once said, “When you want to win a game, you have to teach. When you lose a game, you have to learn.”
I’m learning right now…
Because at our next game, I want competition to find me at my best.
Hey Dustin. happy b-day again. :) Interesting post on competition! I can relate. Its something I've seen happen to me many times. I used to think I could control it by telling myself this is just a game and remembering I'm there to have fun, not get mad. Usually, that seemed to work... but there were always those times, when, even if I stayed calm on the exterior, inside my self and my pride were all alive and I'd be hoppin' mad. Part of why I quit varsity soccer was because I realized what it was doing to me. The whole environment was pretty contrary to my Christian experience... I wouldn't go to the extreme of saying never play ball... but I've really reevaluated the place of competitive sports programs in Christian education... in addition to the competitive aspect it doesn't seem to really jive with the principles of Christian stewardship for time, money, or health. I have a lifelong knee injury thanks to my pride the intramural football field... anyway... interesting topic. THanks for sharing. Hope this year is going better or you. Take care man. Praying for you.
ReplyDeleteKody, I appreciate the feedback. It's definitely something to keep in mind. However, I by no means condone removing competition from my life. I just need to address it. And I have been. And I've been much happier. It keeps me active. It builds community. Balance is everything.
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