Life Lessons From Being An Underdog

Just the other day, I saw a request for proposals from a major agency that I felt would be a good fit for my organization to bid for. I began doing my research around the project, the work that would be needed, and the other organizations who would likely bid on this project. As I looked at the list of likely bidders, I grew very nervous! These other bidders — my competition — were some of the strongest organizations in our field. Most of them had been leading muti-million-dollar contracts since before my organization was even registered. These were highly qualified bidders, and in my eyes, very likely to win out over my own proposal.

Rather than admit defeat before even starting, I thought back through my life about the times that I was the least likely winner, but still triumphed. I realized that I have often been an underdog — the David to my competitor’s Goliath — but still found success. In fact, being perceived as a weaker competitor has its advantages! For anyone who feels they’re not the strongest competitor for their next step, I’d like to share a few life lessons from being an underdog.

Being an underdog makes you more prepared

As I prepared my proposal, I used all possible resources to ensure that I put together the strongest argument for my organization that could be made. I put in extra time and effort, reading the…