Whether cricket, football or baseball, the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of shared experiences often draw us in as spectators. We cheer on our favourite teams, immerse ourselves in the game’s drama, and revel in the collective triumphs and setbacks. In the process, we forget that the more we associate and identify with something we have no control over, the more we are subject to uncertainty and suffering. This is particularly true with sports, as the emotions of fans are often tied to the performance of their team or favourite athletes. This is because we are essentially outsourcing our happiness and well-being to something that is outside of our control. I have seen first-hand the frustration and heartbreak that a billion people experienced when India lost the Cricket World Cup finals yesterday to Australia, despite being unbeaten in all the previous games. All the wishes, cheering, prayers and tears amounted to nothing. That can hurt and haunt people for a long time. I even watched my daughter cry. (Hence this post).

If we define our worth by our favourite sports team’s success, we will constantly be on edge, hoping and praying that they win. When they lose, we will feel let down, disappointed, and even depressed. The highs and lows of sports can be intense, and the more we identify with a team or athlete, the more we experience those emotional swings. The thrill of victory can be exhilarating, but the agony of defeat can be crushing, especially when we feel personally invested in the outcome. When things go wrong, the suffering can be amplified by our level of identification. We may feel disappointment, anger, sadness, or even shame when our team loses, or our favourite athlete underperforms. This can spill over into other areas of our lives, impacting our moods and relationships.

This is not to say that everyone who enjoys sport is doomed to suffer. Of course, there is nothing wrong with enjoying sports and rooting for our favourite teams. It’s about finding a healthy balance and not associating our self-worth with the performance of a team or athlete.

That is why I recommend that one choose to play a sport rather than merely watch one. While being a passionate fan can be an enjoyable pastime, there’s a difference between passively observing and actively participating in a game.

When we merely watch a game, we relinquish control over the outcome. On the other hand, playing a game transforms us from passive observers into active participants. We take on the role of players, making decisions, strategizing, and executing our plans in real time. This active engagement not only enhances our enjoyment of the game but also brings tangible benefits.

Physical Fitness and Mental Well-being

Watching sports is often combined with long hours of sitting and even drinking alcohol/sugary beverages, snacking and binge eating, all of which can compound negatively over a period of time. On the contrary, participating in sports provides many physical health advantages. It enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, improves coordination and balance, and promotes overall physical well-being. Regular exercise through sports has also boosted mood, reduced stress, and improved cognitive function.

Social Connection and Personal Growth

Engaging in sports fosters a sense of belonging and community. I acknowledge that watching a sport can also have social benefits like bonding with coworkers, friends and relatives. But playing sports goes a step further. Team sports, in particular, teach valuable lessons in teamwork, cooperation, and leadership. Players learn to communicate effectively, support their teammates, and work together towards a common goal. These skills extend beyond the sports field and translate into other aspects of life, enhancing personal growth and success.

The Joy of Effort and Achievement

The process of playing a game, from the initial training to the final competition, is a journey of effort, dedication, and self-improvement. Setting goals, overcoming challenges, and achieving personal milestones instil a sense of accomplishment and pride. These experiences contribute to building self-confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset, which are essential for success in all areas of life.

Active Participation: A Path to Fulfillment

While watching a game can be entertaining, it often leaves us detached and unfulfilled. As spectators, we are mere observers, unable to influence the outcome or directly contribute to the experience. However, when we step onto the field or court, we become active participants, shaping our own experiences and reaping the rewards of our efforts.

Playing a game is not just about winning or losing; it’s about the journey, the challenges, the triumphs, and the lessons learned along the way. It’s about pushing our limits, discovering our strengths, and connecting with others through shared passion and endeavour. Merely being a spectator neither makes you healthy, popular, or better. So, the next time you’re tempted to settle in as a spectator, consider stepping out and becoming a player – even if it means you play a safer, scaled-down version of the game like Box Cricket. Cheer for your favourite teams, but be a player first. Embrace at least one sport, any sport, take up the challenge, get coached if needed, savour the experience, and discover the joys of active participation.