Between the ages of 8 and 12, I played on a soccer team where winning was not the only goal of the game. In fact, I don’t remember ever winning. However, I remember having a great time, fooling around, working hard and re-hashing the times we almost scored from ridiculous plays.

We were not a bad team. We had some athleticism and decent skill. Each practice we worked on the basics and every single technique to get a goal-scoring opportunity. The problem was we never learned how to score. We rarely practiced with nets.

Our parents groaned, laughed and some eventually left the team because they did not want their son on a losing team that never practiced scoring. Those parents never understood that the coaches had set up the perfect learning environment.

After each dismal season filled with losses, our coach said, “you learn the most from losing.” I realized this was absolutely true. We learned about what we needed to improve on after each loss.

The soccer club provided us with basic skill sets and an environment in which to use them. They forced us to figure out how to take risks and accept failure. When we took risks and it worked, we began to grow as players.

Each risk provides a potential moment of growth. Attempting an unusual or creative idea can lead to good. Either the idea works or it doesn’t. If it doesn’t, change it for the better or allow it to lead you onto the next big idea.

I believe anything can be improved, whether it is class work, art, athletics or friendships. These improvements usually originate from taking risks. Risks push the boundaries and test potential options. Usually these can lead to impressive changes for the better.

When risks do not work it can be disappointing. Consequences such as a bad grade or disapproval from peers can be demoralizing in the moment. Yet, it is important to remember to take risks and attempt to improve.

I was never sad or extremely disappointed after each loss. I learned how to take the losses and improve from them. Some of my teammates would leave the field with their heads down, but I never felt that way, since I knew I had improved.

It is not all about winning, so lose gracefully. Don’t let anger and frustration override the moment after the game. Realize and accept the risks you have taken. Learn from them.