One thing I have learned from my nearly two decades in the coaching and fitness industry is that sometimes no matter how hard you work in practice, how much you have rehearsed, or how confident you feel about your chances to win...it might not happen. At this level of competition, EVERYONE is doing the same thing...peaking for their moment to shine. Expectations can be a dangerous thing. I say this because when others hold you to a high expectation and you don't perform to their level of presumption, the fall from their grace feels even harder. Best efforts sometimes just don't get you the outcome we want...not everyone reaches the podium...but it's the experiences that drive us to continue to compete.

Wednesday was the final pitch for the Sharks Pitch Competition held by Urban Impact. I was prepared, ready, and anxious to take the stage to share my pitch. I NAILED IT!!! But as I said earlier, others did too. It was in the hands of the judges, and they made the right decision. Gold, silver, and bronze awards as well as three honorable mention prizes were given out. When the dust settled...I was not awarded any of those prizes.

The emotions of disbelief, irritation, anger, and sadness enveloped me, and at the time, I couldn't be happy for the winners. In hindsight, I do believe the judges got it right. Those six individuals were consistent, locked in, and delivered powerful stories about their entrepreneur's journey. I can safely say now, I am proud and happy for them! One final curve ball came from the sponsors.

I have always said that I don't mind being a "Door Kicker". This is a term that I use as a synonym for "Trailblazer". It is always hard to be the first to do something. My pitch was second on the docket, so it gave judges time to feel out the rest of the competition, loosen or tighten their grading criteria, or have expectations for following pitchers. Because we made a lasting impression, myself and another person inspired sponsors to create a new category..."Entrepreneur to Watch For". An on the spot award of $1000 was given to us!

What I lost in prize money, I gained in experience, preparation, and connection. I stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow business owners who may look to me for my advice in the future (most of the people competing were startup businesses). A client told me yesterday, "Sometimes it's not about you being put into a situation for YOU to learn, but rather those around you to learn from YOU." That hit hard for me and gave me some comfort.

It's own to the next one...better prepared and fueled by the competitive spirit!