Defining a Winner

How would you define a “winner” in the game of life? Here are a few thoughts from James and Jongward’s book, BORN TO WIN.

“A winner can reveal himself instead of projecting images that please, provoke, or entice others. . .

“While she can admire and respect other people, she is not totally defined, demolished, bound, or awed by them. . .

“A winner does not play ‘helpless’ nor does he play the blaming game. Instead he assumes responsibility for his own life. . .


“A winner’s timing is right. He responds appropriately to the situation. His response is appropriate when it is related to the message sent and preserves the significance, worth, well-being, and dignity of the people involved. . .

“A winner learns to know his feelings and his limitations and is not afraid of them. She is not stopped by her own contradictions and ambivalences. She knows when she is angry and can listen when others are angry with her. She can give and receive affection. She is able to love and be loved. . .

“A winner can be spontaneous. He does not have to respond in predetermined, rigid ways. He can change his plans when the situation calls for it. . .

“Although a winner can freely enjoy himself, he can also postpone enjoyment. He can discipline himself in the present to enhance his enjoyment in the future. He is not afraid to go after what he wants but does so in appropriate ways. . .

“A winner cares about the world and its peoples. She is not isolated from the general problems of society. . .”

It is a glorious thing to work with a fellow Christians who are striving, with the Lord’s help, to be “winners”.