Why is it so hard to value accomplishments?

Most of you should know I’m not a great sports fan, so I certainly don’t read many sports-related news articles.  But I have scanned a few over the last week due to my attendance of the World Figure Skating Championships.  I am astounded and disheartened at the negativity.  These skaters are the best in the WORLD.  Many achieved season best scores at the competition.  Others had a harder time, but that doesn't mean that we shouldn't be impressed by all they have accomplished.  Why is the focus on how they “failed” instead of everything they achieved?  I've been thinking about how this attitude translates to us in our everyday lives.

Growing up, I was expected to achieve… a lot.  But I was also taught it was most important to try my best.  Society no longer seems to think that the attempt is good enough.  If you are not the definitive winner, you are nothing at all.  No wonder so many people are forlorn.  Not everyone can be the winner all the time.  Is there anything wrong with that?  Shouldn't we be proud of what we do accomplish?  What happened to participating in activities for fun, or to simply learn something new?   Not everything you try is going to be your “thing”, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't enjoy the experience.

I suddenly understand why so many give up or move on as soon as they reach the top.  Quick, let's quit while we're ahead so we aren't forever viewed as declining!  Not only are we compared to others, but judged against our own past achievements.  Nothing ever seems to be good enough.  Is this why so many people cheat and steal?  They feel society's pressure to climb to the top, but can’t, or aren't willing, to find a way to get there honestly.

I’m not saying there's anything wrong with winning, competing or admiring those who have successfully achieved their goals.  I just think it's sad that many don't value levels of achievement, life choices, and goals that might not equal their own.