I often get the feeling that the world is obsessed with winning and tangible achievements – we all get caught up in the allure of finite games too easily. We strive for promotions, accolades, and accomplishments that we believe will mark our success. Yet, what if there's a different way to approach our careers, one that goes beyond the confines of traditional competition and instead focuses on the journey itself? This is the essence of viewing our careers (and pretty much any other component of life) as an infinite game.
As I read about Simon Sinek's concept of infinite games, I couldn't help but draw parallels to my own professional journey. For years, I had witnessed peers fixated on climbing the corporate ladder; at times this pushed me into measuring my success by promotions and salary increases. One of my greatest downfalls stemmed from impatience and giving up on initiatives when there was no sight of traction, instead of playing the long game and placing more trust in myself. This approach left me feeling unfulfilled and constantly chasing the next milestone without truly enjoying the present moment.
It was during a period of reflection, spurred on by my dedication to fitness and hobbies like pick-up basketball games and learning new sports, that I began to see my career in a new light. Just as in sports, where the joy lies in the game itself rather than the final score, I realized that my career could be approached with the same mindset.
Instead of viewing my career as a series of finite goals to be achieved, I started to see it as an ongoing journey of growth and development. This shift in perspective allowed me to focus on continuous improvement, learning from setbacks, and embracing new challenges with enthusiasm rather than fear.
One of the most significant benefits of embracing the infinite game mindset in my career has been the sense of freedom it has brought. No longer bound by the pressure to outdo my peers or reach arbitrary benchmarks, I feel liberated to explore new opportunities and take risks without the fear of failure looming over me.
Moreover, this mindset has enabled me to find deeper meaning and purpose in my work. Instead of seeking external validation, I now derive satisfaction from the impact I can make and the relationships I cultivate along the way. Just as in sports, where camaraderie and teamwork often overshadow individual achievements, I've come to appreciate the power of collaboration and shared goals in my professional endeavors.
Of course, embracing the infinite game mindset doesn't mean abandoning ambition or striving for excellence. On the contrary, it encourages us to redefine what success means to us personally and to align our actions with our values and passions. By focusing on the journey rather than the destination, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities and opportunities for growth.
As I continue to navigate my career with an infinite game mindset, I'm reminded of the words of legendary basketball coach John Wooden: "Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming." In the infinite game of life and career, may we all strive to do our best, knowing that the true reward lies in the journey itself.
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