Winning vs. Being First

Is there a difference? My first thought was "no, they're the same. Winning equals being first." But as I reflected further I realized some key differences. Here are those differences I observed and what it reveals.

Winning:

- Winning requires competition. If others are not also trying to win, you can't "win." It's never "your turn" to win.

- Winning requires goals. Winning is only possible if "the win" is defined. Whether it be two (or more) teams vying for the same goal, or individuals on the same team engaged in friendly competition, the goal must be shared/valued.

- Winning implies a prize. Whether the prize is fame or fortune, winners are recognized by observers and other competitors.

- Winning requires intentionality. People and teams do not win by accident. Study, practice, strategy, and consistency are all facets of intentionality and are all essential to win.

- Winning requires performance. If you want to win, you must out perform the competitors around you. If you don't, you don't win.

Being First: 

- Being first does not require competition. You are first in line there is no competition. You are simply waiting your turn.

- Being first does not necessitate effort. Being first can happen simply by chance or luck of the draw.

- Limited intentionality is required.

- A prize is still offered.

The Bottom Line:

- There is a distinct mindset difference between winners and those who simply want to "be first." The difference is found in expectation. The mindset of a winner does not expect to win but expects to compete. A "Being First" mindset expects reward without much, or any, effort. The mindset of a winner is focused on what it takes to win and selling out to make that happen. If the focus is being first we deny the competition and begin to expect we are next in line so we deserve whatever the prize is. Why does this matter? It matters because too many of us want to "be first" but don't care to win. We don't want the competition, we don't want the work, and we don't want the risk. We want the prize but don't want to put in the effort to earn that prize and when we don't get our turn, the world is seen as unfair.

What could a mindset shift change for you and your leadership?

cover image source:

<a href="https://www.vecteezy.com/free-photos/stadium">Stadium Stock photos by Vecteezy</a>