The underdog magic — a one time recipe!
Who doesn’t like a ‘rags to riches’ story?
There is a charm in making bets and daring guesses. Apart from the adrenalin rush that one experiences in witnessing their prediction become a reality, it is also a test of ones ability to calculate the variables in the environment, and arrive at a plausible conclusion. It might not be able to put in words — the reasoning behind your decision on who the victor maybe; it could very well be the famed gut-feeling that we all experience.
But then there are the unexpected predictions that startle us all — David defeating Goliath with a catapult and stones. These tales leave us inspired and hopeful of invoking within us the ability to surmount challenges and emerge victorious. An unheard wrestler defeating a famed champion in a duel — to be celebrated for centuries to follow.
How is it that these exceptional cases occur in our world? David Goggin’s explores a possible answer in his book Can’t hurt Me, explaining how men set boundaries to challenge the ones who deserve to break it. The key lies in the inner monologue we live by — to tell ourselves stories of courage and will to strive despite hurdles in ones life.
But what piques my interest is the life after the magic moment. Yes, you might have done the impossible and established your place in the system as the new Goliath but then, you are keenly observed and it becomes harder to surprise others — as they now have expectations from you. In fact, it becomes much more easier to disappoint one by missing out 1in contrast to the other 99 perfect shots.
Another risk I see in the underdog story is the overflow of appreciation that can create a mindset of complacency in the hero — to cause lack of timely actions latter and eventual diminishing interest of the public. It is not a great feeling to be taken for granted or to be ‘expected’ to behave in a certain manner — the surprise element is what brings joy to the moment. Or at least thats my opinion.
So how can you emerge as an underdog in circumstances and avoid the spotlight traps in life? The key lies in finding joy in the action rather than the end goal — to express minimal but required gratitude for the success of the instant. It takes refined control of will to behave in this manner but thats how the extraordinary one’s are molded. Set your purpose on a long lasting vision rather than a momentary mission to impress a few, and you won’t be surprised by the ascend to success that those around you take with amazement.
