Sun, February 07, 2010 - 5:51:20

This Super Bowl Sunday, Throw Out the Scorecard

If you’re like most of us, this weekend means you’ll be gathering in front of the television with friends, family, and an armload of snacks to cheer on your team in the NFL Championship.  And whether you’re rooting for the Colts or the Saints, chances are you’ll be keeping close tabs on the score.  But when the game is over, everyone has gone home, and you inexplicably find yourself mentally comparing your accomplishments to those of your fellow football fans, you might want to take a look at your own life and ask yourself: am I too busy “keeping score?”
If the answer is “yes,” we have just one bit of advice: toss out that scorecard.

Of course, it’s perfectly normal—and very common—to keep a mental log of your accomplishments and most of us, at one time or another will compare our “haves” to those of our friends and family.  But, what benefit does it actually provide to think “my sister just got engaged but I have a more successful career” or “my friend has a higher paying job but I have a more prestigious title.” 

In truth, engaging in this kind of unofficial competition serves no purpose because it unnecessarily breeds negativity and, after all, when someone you care about succeeds, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed.

Instead of inwardly stewing, why not outwardly celebrate whenever you feel others gaining on your mental tally by acknowledging their accomplishments and offering your sincere congratulations?  Even if you’re feeling less that felicitous at first, the mere action of being nice, portraying positivity, and coming from a place of abundance will help to lift your spirits.

So, this Super Bowl Sunday, instead of tackling your perceived opponents, take the time to congratulate them for everything they’ve worked for and then pat yourself on the back for a job NICE-ly done.

Posted by Linda and Robin