Are you "Playing to Win" or "Playing Not to Lose"

QUIZ

Do you typically "play to win" or "play not to lose"? We're each guided by our habits, thought patterns, individual talents, and, of course, by the situation at hand. Some behaviors come more natural to us than others.

Do you typically “play to win” or “play not to lose”? We’re each guided by our habits, thought patterns, individual talents, and, of course, by the situation at hand. Some behaviors come more natural to us than others.

DIRECTIONS:

Consider each of the statements below and, for each pair, mark the one that more closely describes your usual thinking and behavior.

Question 1c

I like being creative and considering fresh approaches.

I like being thorough, accurate, and carefully planned.

Question 2c

I tend to look at my goals as opportunities to meet my responsibilities.

I tend to look at my goals as opportunities for gain or advancement.

Question 3c

I like big ideas and out-of-the-box thinking.

I favor sensible ideas with a well-thought-out action plan.

Question 4c

I strive to minimize losses and protect what I already have.

I strive to maximize gains and avoid missing opportunities.

Question 5c

I respond best to optimism and praise.

I’m driven by criticism and possibility of failure.

Question 6c

I try to stay secure, fulfill my duties, and be seen as steadfast.

I try to make progress, stand out, fulfill aspirations, and receive accolades.

Question 7c

I’m willing to take chances and seize opportunities.

I defend what’s working and don’t take chances.

Question 8c

I’m more influenced and motivated by cautionary tales.

I’m motivated by stories of successful people with can-do attitudes.

Question 9c

I’m more likely to use riskier strategies, approaches that really go for wins and get me closer to my goal.

I’m more likely to use conservative strategies, approaches that prevent setbacks and help me avoid making dangerous mistakes.

Question 10c

I am a trusting, accepting, solution-oriented person who accentuates the positive.

I am a skeptical, critical-minded, problem-focused person who seeks to eliminate the negative.

Question 11c

I’m drawn to products advertised as safe and reliable.

I’m drawn to products advertised as luxurious or comfortable.

Click the submit button below to learn about the differences between the two behaviors and how your behavior could be working for you or against you.

This quiz is based on a fascinating book titled FOCUS: Use Different Ways of Seeing the World for Success and Influence, by Heidi Grant Halvorson, Ph.D. and E. Tory Higgins, Ph.D. of Columbia University. Read the book to reach a much deeper understanding of “playing to win” vs. “playing not to lose.”