Where on earth did this expression come from?
According to the dictionary it means:
“a person who participates in a game or other activity with too much enthusiasm, emotion, effort, or commitment:”
Whoa- how dreadful?!!! Just imagine a world inhabited by these type of people. Enthusiastic, committed, hardworking people! Eek!
Seriously though, since when was there such a thing as too much enthusiasm, effort or commitment.
Wherever the expression originated, I know it was designed to put people in their box and stop them from trying, because clearly “trying hard” is uncool.
Well, my view is trying hard is incredibly cool and brave and admirable.
When we can’t yet do something, it is hard to put yourself out there and then you’ve got some heckler in the stands not only telling you that you’re not very good but also you’re not allowed to try hard to get better.
The only cool option left to them is to give up and sit in the stands with the other hecklers.
Trying hard when you can’t do something is essential. It is something to be proud of not to be shamed for. For one, you have to risk looking foolish as you gain competence and for two you are risking the scorn and derision of all the shadow artists who actually don’t want you to get better. They actually want you to be as scared as they are and join them in the stands, rather than getting in the arena.
At Goat Track we see ‘trying’ as essential. The more effort the better. We know that sometimes this will mean “doing it ugly” before a new skill becomes second nature. We also know that the only way out of a challenge is to go through it. Not to stop trying and retire to the stands to throw tomatoes at those who dare to be better. We believe the only real failure is the failure to show up!
If you’re a young person who is hanging out in a space where its uncool to try – my advice is – get out of there and join us.
We’re a bunch of giant Try-Hards! We try hard and we expect you to try hard too! Excellence is where talent meets effort.
That’s what makes us excellent! Effort!
If that sounds good – it is! You will be able to finally stop hiding your talent and grow your greatness with the support of others who also want you to shine your light. We will be cheering you on and you better be prepared to cheer us on as well. That’s part of the deal!
So next time someone calls you a try hard – say “Thank You.” Because it means you’re getting better!
Andrew “Try Hard” Wright