I was just reading an article where the author’s main point was that [speaking of the Masters golf tournament results] Tiger Woods needs to learn to lose graciously. Is that really a good idea? I guess it depends on how you define “graciously”. Do I believe you need to be polite after the game or the match, win or lose? Yes, of course! Do I think you have to like losing, or pretend you don’t mind losing? No, of course not! Do I think you should throw a tantrum if you’re losing during a match [as far as I know, Tiger Woods did not do that in this case]? No, that doesn’t really benefit anyone. In fact, displaying your anger usually only hurts your chances of mounting a comeback. Think tennis, for example — by displaying your anger or frustration, you only give your opponent further real-time clues about how to beat you. What do you think? Should we do more “losing graciously,” or should we just be polite after the match, win or lose? Or, are they the same thing in your mind? Please leave your thoughts in the comments box below or by clicking on “responses” in the top right corner of this post.
Paul
CompanyFounder.com
paul@companyfounder.com .
I understand that you would be upset after a game — that’s just human nature. I think what the author meant was it’s the way you carry yourself after a loss that speaks volumes about your character. People will think highly of someone who admits they lost but doesn’t take away the excitement for the winner. If you’re a golfer that loses pretty sorely and the television stations cover you more then they do the winner, then something is wrong. The winner should get to have the glory they deserve for a game well done.