As a player, coach, and athlete, it is always very anxiety provoking to face an opponent that you know is better than you. A lot of thoughts and self-doubt often go racing through your mind: there is no way I can win, this is going to be embarrassing, what if I don’t PR? Contrary to popular belief, going into competition as the underdog is extremely advantageous. In a David vs. Goliath fight, Goliath is the one with everything to lose. He is the one with the reputation, the strength, the prestige and all of the accountability. As the unsuspecting rival, David has every opportunity to use the element of surprise to be victorious.

In other words, constantly having an underdog mentality in every aspect of life will be advantageous in all circumstances. Reframing the way we approach challenging situations can be the main difference in the results we see. Rise to the challenge, take risk, and know that it is okay if you don’t succeed as long as you tried your best. It is better to make an attempt at something great then to regret passing up an opportunity.

As an underdog, instead of succumbing to outside performance pressures, take on the mindset that you have nothing to lose. Leave everything you have out on the playing field. Work harder and smarter putting in the extra hours to over-prepare and you will be pleasantly surprised by the results.