I’m often asked the question (after a road race or a time trial), “did you win?”

My typical answer is “no, I accomplished my goal.” The response to such a question is not expected and it usually creates a whimsical look on the face of the person asking the question … and thus, more questions. Answering with merely a “no” opens a door which requires explanation or what I call justification. In general, people are interested in what you won, and not much else. Placing in the top 10 isn’t spectacular; placing mid-field is considered failure … never mind the journey itself!

No one who competes in any type of sporting activity is exempt from the pain of defeat. The acceptance of being defeated, while difficult to stomach at times, teaches us how to lose with grace. I’ve learned over time that taking success and failure lightly – without strongly identifying with either – allows me to maintain a delicate mental balance. After all, it’s about having fun not the win nor the loss. For me, focusing on winning hinders my performance. I’d rather focus on the journey of getting there, competing and readying again. This is very similar to the walk of life. We either enjoy the journey or we miss out on a lot of fun.

Don’t misunderstand what I’m saying. I enjoy the feeling of placing in the top 10 or an outright 1st, but that’s not what drives my preparation and participation. I love competing and winning in my own way. For me, accomplishing my goals feel like a win.

Competing at something other than work is important because it builds character. The sense of fair play is strengthened, and the value of preparation is greatly appreciated. Competing helps build mental tenacity, will power, transparency, discipline and the ability to handle greater amounts of stress. These traits, over time, become habits and ultimately build character.

For the hoards of people who ask the “did you win” question I suggest that you get off the sofa, move your happy ass a little faster and compete in something. Feel the pain, test your mental fortitude, and when you don’t finish first – give up. After all, the folks who typically ask the “did you win” question are the same folks who feel like they have to compete for parking spaces or a lane in traffic somewhere.

Nuf said, I shall continue to Ride On.