Why Failing to Be #1 Made Me a Champion: The Upside of Losing

Being a professor with a learning disability? What’s it like?
My disability is not seen and you will never know when you talk to me.
Unless you ask me to remember, or put sentences together. I call people “buddy” or “pal.” I will never remember your name.
I can’t remember how to spell my middle name or even sister’s name.
Words used to be so jumbled for me. They still are, but I have lots of practice.
But, I still want to, and have been able to do a lot.
The truth is that the “market” ultimately doesn’t care, and you still have to get back up despite your adversities.
Here is the thing, we often overlook the profound lessons hidden in our setbacks.
I’ve come to understand that not securing the top spot is not just acceptable, it’s advantageous. I’m not at the “pinnacle” of my field, nor do I expect to ever be.
This realization isn’t born from a lack of ambition, but from a deep appreciation for the resilience and gumption that come from navigating adversity. Having a learning #disability has always been my superpower.
Every challenge and apparent failure has been instrumental in shaping my approach, honing my skills in ways that victories could not.
Success isn't solely measured by being the “best;” it's gauged by our capacity to endure, adapt, and thrive despite what you have.
Let's reassess what it means to be successful. It’s not about always leading the pack.
It’s about being a “contender,”respected on any stage.
Recognizing that you might not be number one, but still pushing forward with unwavering determination, transforms potential setbacks into stepping stones.