The Winner's Curse

In "The Winner's Curse" Richard Thaler wrote about the economic difficulties attendant with 'successful' transactions. In other words, "be careful what you wish for."

Everyone can't be the focal point of a team. Alan Williams wrote a terrific book  (Teammates Matter) about his experience as a walk-on at Wake Forest, with 59 minutes of playing time in four years. His career encapsulated the highs and lows available to collegians. Although he made the team, that didn't mean he received equal treatment from everyone involved. When they handed out team travel bags, he didn't get one. Later, he found one in his locker, which he realized belonged to the star of the team who had relinquished his.

Legendary Coach Phil Jackson writes about his sport "basketball is sharing." He emphasizes the importance of finding ways to help teammates. Another coach writes, "the star of the team is the team." Because great and conflicting emotion accompanies sports, we must find ways to balance ego, confidence, and humility .

Sometimes asking the right questions points us in the right direction. "How can I be the best teammate I can be" or "what can I do to help the team?"

It's a lot easier to be a player than a parent...sometimes what is best for our youngster isn't what is best for the team. It's a lot easier to watch the games without a filial interest. THAT is the winner's curse.