Finishing First: What It Really Means to Win

Scholars and an Olympian explore the importance of purpose and deeper meaning around the topics of performing and winning. “Research shows that having a strong sense of purpose not only helps guide and direct our lives in important ways but adds meaning and fosters resilience.” Scholar Michael Lamb “worries that a culture obsessed with winning—whether in sports, education, or business—can foster cutthroat attitudes and overlook moral excellence and virtues like cooperation and collaboration, which promote flourishing for the whole group.” He “advocates for a broader view of success… He emphasizes qualities such as kindness, humility, justice and courage...” Lamb hopes parents, educators, athletes, and students will incorporate being an excellent human being into performance excellence. The Olympian cautions to be sure and have fun: “If you’re not having fun, then there’s no way you’re going to be the best that you can be.”

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