Recently, I competed in the area level (the second level) of the speech competition I’m in. I lost and came in second place.
Let me tell you something…
I HATE to not win a speech contest! However, this time was different.
Even though I’m still disappointed I lost, I can tell I have grown in the last 4 years since I’ve competed. Grown as in that I did not take it as hard as I would have in the past. Why? Because I was not married to the result.
I was married to the process.
Before when I lost, it would feel devastating the whole day and I’ve even cried while driving home from a contest. Not this time.
I knew I had practiced, made changes where needed, and I felt really good about how I performed. The first place winner is also a very strong speaker, so – from what others told me – they said they felt bad for anyone having to judge a contest that included us! Kudos to the winner! We both did our best.
Preparing myself to perform at my best is something I CAN control. The result – what the judges decide – is something I can’t.
So that’s my advice – be married to the process of whatever you do.
And every speech contest sharpens me, so that is ALWAYS a plus!
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As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
- 1 Peter 4:10-11
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