Every New Year’s Eve for the past decade, my wife Claudia and I reset the scoreboard for our annual backgammon competition. What started as a way to pass time while living abroad has grown into a cherished tradition—and an unexpected source of life and business lessons.
Backgammon, at its core, is a game of strategy, risk, and adaptability. These same principles have become invaluable in how we run our business together. Over countless games, we’ve discovered insights that have shaped our approach to challenges both on and off the board. Here are the top five lessons we’ve carried from our matches into our entrepreneurial journey:
1. Strategy is Everything
In backgammon, every move matters. You need to think several steps ahead and weigh the consequences of each decision. This mindset mirrors how we approach business planning. Whether crafting a new marketing strategy or closing a deal, thinking long-term ensures we make decisions that align with our big-picture goals.
2. Balancing Risk and Reward
Backgammon teaches you when to take risks and when to play it safe. In business, we’ve learned that calculated risks often yield the greatest rewards—but only when they’re balanced with prudence. Knowing when to push forward and when to pause has been key to our success.
3. Adaptability Wins the Day
No matter how good your strategy, the dice can shift the game in an instant. In business, the same principle holds true. Unexpected challenges arise, and the ability to pivot quickly has been critical in turning setbacks into opportunities.
4. Communication Strengthens Collaboration
Our backgammon games have taught us the value of clear communication. From agreeing on the rules to debating bold moves, these interactions have strengthened our ability to collaborate effectively. In business, open dialogue has been instrumental in making tough decisions together.
5. Learn from Losses, Celebrate Wins
Each backgammon season has its highs and lows. The losses teach us to improve, and the wins remind us to celebrate progress. In our business, this perspective helps us stay grounded while continually evolving and growing.
A Tradition That Inspires
Beyond the lessons, our nightly backgammon matches are a reminder of the importance of balance. They give us a chance to reconnect and recharge, no matter how hectic life gets. As we gear up for another year of friendly competition, we’re grateful for how this simple game has shaped us—as partners in both life and business.
Next time you sit down to play a game, think about the lessons it might hold. You might just find it’s teaching you more than how to win.
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