Larry Bird missed over 11,000 shots, yet he won 3 NBA Championships, and many (including me) believe he is one of the best basketball players of all time.
Roger Federer lost 46% of the points over his professional tennis career, but won over 80% of his matches and 20 grand slam singles victories, including eight Wimbledon titles.
Abraham Lincoln lost almost every political race he ever entered until finally becoming one of the country's greatest Presidents.
We fail, we fall short, we swing and miss...a lot.
Michael Jordan said, "I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career, I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over again in my life. And that's why I succeed."
When you shank life into the woods...hit your next best shot.
"For I have chosen you and will not throw you away. Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." (Isaiah 41:9-10)
You are where you are for a purpose.
You are literally chosen by God. When you run into hard times, failure, and tough odds, fight the discouragement. He will strengthen you and lead you to victory if you trust Him and just keep swinging.
The difference between a trophy and a participation ribbon is grit. Physical ability is important, but mental toughness will be needed to cross the finish line. You must do the work to develop both. As Roger Federer says, "It's just a point". Put the last shot behind you and focus on the one in front of you. Learn from your mistakes, make adjustments as needed, put in the work, and keep swinging. It takes grit and faith. When you swing and miss, get over it, get up, and persevere. It’s just a point.