Trying Is Better Than Crying

 “Trying Is Better Than Crying!” This statement is a “coachism” that I learned from Dick Moscovic. I’ve mentioned Dick before. He is retired teacher and an outstanding individual, who positively influenced 47 years of students in our community. (Yes, Dick was a public-school teacher for 47 years.)

A “coachism” is a statement used to motivate and encourage students. Dick was a wrestling coach for many years, and his students continued to use the title “Coach” long after he hung up his wrestling shoes. Dick’s coachisms are inspired by his faith and they communicate profound truths about life.

Choose a Growth Mindset

Students will often say, “I can’t do it. I’m not creative.” Or, even more common is the statement students will make after I ask why their math performance is so low: “I can’t learn algebra.” Sometimes students will even get angry when I try to convince them that they can learn math. These students are exhibiting what educators know as a “fixed,” instead of a “growth” mindset. A person’s belief or mindset about intelligence, ability, and talent can have a profound impact on his or her future.

Then, comes the dreaded question, “Why do I need to learn Algebra?” “When will I use this in the real world?” Of course, I would give them some examples, but the best answer is always, because it grows your brain. Thinking in new and novel ways is sometimes hard work, but it helps us to problem solve and apply new and different approaches in all areas of our personal and professional lives. 

A “growth mindset” is better. When students believe they can get smarter, they put in the effort, which in turn leads to higher achievement. I’ve seen this happen over and over again in my career as an educator. Effort is also the key to success in life: the more effort, the more achievement. It’s a lot like going down a waterslide. Once you start, your speed picks up and carries you to the goal.

Learning and Growing

Learning and growing requires effort. However, it is worthwhile it. The feeling of accomplishment will renew your mind and satisfy your spirit. Trying is definitely better. It means putting effort into to doing something that is difficult. Crying means sitting around complaining about what you think you can’t do. The truth is that God made us strong, much stronger than we most often think.

The question for us today is what is are you trying or crying?  Do we have a fixed or growth mindset? This reminds me of the woman who said, “Don’t confuse me with the facts. My mind is already made up.” Are you open to learning and growing? I pray that we would let the Lord transform us by the renewing of our minds.

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but be a new and different person with a fresh newness in all you do and think. Then you will learn from your own experience how his ways will really satisfy you.” Romans 12:2, TLB

Copyright © 2020 Chuck Locklear

Also, see Passion.