I can have a varied level of success, but I can’t have a varied level of winning. Winning is absolute. Either I win or I don’t.
I may do all the right things, miss on a little thing, and not win.
Getting an agreement, signatures on a proposal, and approval on a deliverable are examples of winning. To win, I must understand all the variables and get them in my favour. If I miss out on a single variable, I risk losing out.
Completing the project on time/budget, having a comfortable life, and being healthy are about success. Success is like being on a spectrum. It is subjective and open to perception and interpretation. Hence, it is available for manipulation.
It helps to know exactly if we are playing to win or succeed. Then, prepare the plan of attack with the end in mind.
