Teaching Your Children that Losing is OK

I grew up in a culture and a race where competition is tight and that winning is almost everything. I grew up in an environment where mediocrity is ridiculed and at best, ignored. I am fortunate though to have parents, my mother in particular, that taught me that winning is not everything. That knowing that you did your best in everything you do is what matters most.

Image: MrsGooding

This is something my Husband and I are trying to impart on our daughter. That we will still love her even if she’s not at the top of her class. We will love her even if she’s at not the best violinist in the orchestra. We tell her that we love her for who she is.

I hope that’s what all parents are doing, too. It’s hard growing up knowing that you’re never good enough in your parents’ eyes. That is a recipe for thousands of dollars spent on psychotherapy sessions.

So, if Susan Boyle’s mom is still alive. I hope she tells Susan that it’s ok that she didn’t win the 2009 Britain’s Got Talent Final. What matters is she tried her best. From watching Susan’s performance at the Final, I think she did. We are proud of you, Susan and like Adam Lambert who came in 2nd in American Idol, I am sure your star will continue to shine long past the show.

I am not a big fan of Susan Boyle. I mean, yes, she has a lovely voice but I don’t think she’s the best singer that’s ever walked on this planet. I do feel sorry for her though. From anonymity, she was catapulted into global fame because of her impressive audition at the show, Britain’s Got Talent.

Now, the final show has come and gone and unfortunately, Susan didn’t win the grand prize. She came in second to dance troupe, Diversity. I feel sorry for her. I feel sorry for her Mum (if she’s still alive).