Mahler's Monday Morning Motivator # 63

[Mahler]

Mahler’s Monday Morning Motivator # 63 – When Winners Act Like Losers.


Good morning guys. I came across an interesting article about violence following sports events. It was taken from a report in Injury Prevention from March. A study was done in the Welsh city of Cardiff to determine the relationship of assault injuries when compared with the national soccer team either winning or losing. Surprisingly, there were more assaults and injuries when the home team won than when they lost. Researchers attributed this to the possible increase in levels of assertiveness, self-confidence and patriotism associated with winning the game. They also found that domestic violence increased when the home team won as well. The article dubbed this reaction “The Swagger Factor.”

I wonder if, at times, I am guilty of “The Swagger Factor.” Not necessarily when the home team wins, but on a more personal level; when I win. I have a good day in the gym or at work and my confidence levels are high. Do I become more assertive or even more aggressive than when I have had a bad day? Do I treat people with just a little less respect or act just a bit more cocky? How about the drive home? Is my driving more aggressive, more willful? What about the workout itself. If I am having a great day, do I push too far? I think we have all had those times when we are pumped and think that we can go well beyond where we are. Unfortunately, those times can lead to big letdowns and even injuries. I think that as men with purpose we must always try to keep things in perspective. There is a reason why we do what we do, and that reason should never include lording it over others or becoming the bully. True strength makes it’s home deep within us and manifests itself in our gentlest actions. Take pride in your accomplishments, but remember that the clenched fist is a corruption of the open hand.

The original article can be found here:
http://aolsvc.health.webmd.aol.com/c...entSRC=aolmain

Have a great week.

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In Fitness & Friendship,
Mahler

[K-Court]

As usual, John, great food for thought. And "remember that the clenched fist is a corruption of the open hand" goes down in my personal quote book. Nice one.

Rob

[BamaDave]

Interesting info. and good points! Next time I have a great workout, I promise I won't clear off all the countertops and overturn all the furniture just because I can!

I think I do feel more assertive and cocky after a great race, but not really workouts or good days at work. Maybe it's the competition factor that drives it for me.

[Jimbo]

Thanks Mahler. Def good points to ponder.

[CAchief]

very interesting. Great find and analysis.