One of the truest Statements I have come across recently. I spend a significant amount of time searching internet sites and reviewing articles for quotes and wisdom that pushes me forward. When I find something that resonates with me, that pushes me to do better, to be greater, I share it with you my readers.
This thought, “You Have to Hate Losing More than You Love Winning” uses the negative approach to turning our lives and journeys into a positive experience. Usually, we are admonished to think about positive things that motivate us to do better, to reach higher. However, this truth starts at the bottom where we must “Hate Losing” so strongly that it becomes “THE” impetus that causes us to prepare and perform at a higher level. We all have experienced losing or at least not doing as well as we should have. There is nothing that is more disappointing than NOT hearing your name called to go back on stage for a better look or to do the pose down. The pain in your stomach is acute and you can feel your very soul drain into your feet. Nothing feels good at that moment. Life seems to have left us behind and we feel “left out.” You direct your thoughts toward god and you implore him to make you invisible.
Thus, these things are to be avoided at all cost. Also, thus is born a brand new motive to propel us forward. We should say this out loud over and over again, “I HATE TO LOSE!” “I HATE TO LOSE!” “I HATE TO LOSE!” “I HATE TO LOSE!”
When I go on stage I have three goals in mind:
1.) I want to be in the best shape of my life
2.) I don’t want to embarrass myself
3.) I want to win or at the very least I want to move up in my finishing slot from last time. If I do either one of these things I consider my outing to be successful
There is nobody who hates losing more than me. I think I can prove that. I push myself with the thought that my competitors are preparing just as hard as I am so I need to push myself harder and harder each time I train. I am more disciplined regarding my diet and cardio. I see my coach more often…..My weakness is posing but I’m now spending more time doing posing and not leaving it to the end.
I adhere to the adage by Flex Lewis that says, “The Trophy is earned in the hours when no one is watching.”
In closing, be driven by a hatred of losing. Celebrating a win is easy but suffering a loss is disastrous so take it seriously.
Until next time, I remain, Douglas E. Graham, Lt Col, USAF, (ret), MHSM
Six Pack and Senior 