🔥 In to win? In Community #58

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I’m deeply competitive. I want to win.

Last week, when I wrote about a culture of health – not more hustle culture – I made sure to include the reminder for all of us that it isn’t a race.

Well, if it isn’t a race, then why am I talking about winning?

I’ve reflected on this more and more over the last several years, especially after moving up and finding success in corporate roles, before eventually taking the entrepreneurial path.

Here’s where I’ve landed.

👉🏽 Wins are what we define ourselves. My wins aren’t about racing to a finish line – they’re about making progress toward my goals. They’re about growth.

👉🏽 Competition isn’t about comparison. It’s natural to compare ourselves to others, especially as we see the hype across our social media feeds, painting a bright picture that might make our own look dull. I’m competitive, but I compete with myself – my expectations are high. How am I growing stronger and better?

👉🏽 Losses are launching pads. A rocket needs solid ground to stand on before it can take off. When I hit a setback (or more often, it feels like the setback just hit me), I steady my footing. I do what I need to do to feel that solid ground beneath my feet, until I’m ready to launch from there.

So, how will you start the year off right? How will you define your own wins for what you see ahead in the near term and for what’s beyond the horizon?

And, like the featured leaders, creators, and culture-makers in this week’s Need to Know, remember to remind yourself what winning looks like to you and how perceived losses will launch you into that next phase of growth.

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Need To Know

💥 “I want to show us as fully human,” says Betty Shamieh. Her debut “Too Soon” comes just at the right time.

💥 Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison, Jr. talk about safety and sincerity, especially as Black men. Their friendship is a testament to defining your own success.

💥 ICYMI: Jarritos and Native just showed how to make winning moves. Their unexpected collab is a new direction for both brands.

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In community,

Fahad