The wrong way to succeed at contests

From Seth:

People are drawn to existing competitions like moths to a flame.  It’s precisely the wrong way to succeed.

I have seen this on many occasions in the Toastmasters speech contest.  The allure of fame that comes from being the World Champion of Public Speaking.  I have been guilty of it myself.  If your goal is to win that contest for the recognition, then you will likely become quite disapointed.

Enter the contest.  Have a blast.  Learn something about yourself and public speaking.  Winning is purely a bonus out of your control.