When a footballer misses a sitter, he first buries his head, hoping that the moment is not definitive of the game or of his life. 

Then he looks to the bench, seeking the eyes of his coach for encouragement or crucifixion. Then his eyes seek out his teammates for the same.

Finally, he looks up at the screen, etching into memory what he has no ability to change.

What defines that moment is not the miss.

What defines that moment are the two sets of eyes he seeks out for empathy: his coach and his teammates.

If both sets of eyes crucify him, he begins to burn out.

If even only one set of eyes reassures him, he is reenergized.

In life, you are either a coach or a teammate.

Those in your space, like children, are always calling out to you to watch and encourage them.

When they win, they want to see you celebrate as if it is your win.

When they lose, they want to see you encourage them to try again.

Losing is never as bad as our mind makes it out to be.

The only thing that reinforces or counters the mind is the eyes around you.

Choose to be the eye of encouragement.

• Osasu Oviawe