Epic Wins

During the discussion about Epic Wins in class, and after watching the TED video, I kept trying to think of other activities besides sports or gaming that fostered the feeling of an epic win in the participant. I would not consider myself a "gamer," and my parents did not allow me to play many video games as a child. Like Betsy, I began to wonder what this meant for me and my set of skills. The skills that gamers develop, such as problem solving and teamwork, can be found in other activities. The activity that stood out most in my mind is music, or band and choir. These are disciplined activities that, like gaming, require dedication, practice, teamwork, creative thinking, and problem solving. Music can also bring about the feeling of an epic win. For example, one may spend hours practicing alone and with the group for a band contest. Like WoW, a musician's individual role is just as important as their ability to blend with the rest of the band. Each person has a specific role that they must fill in order to successful play the song. When learning the song, musicians must apply creative thinking and problem solving skills in order to read and play the music and figure out rhythms. When everyone plays the part successfully, especially at a band contest or concert, it is amazing. I think the feeling of an epic win can definitely be present after pushing through the music with a certain amount of anxiousness and hope that no mistakes will be made, and putting your faith in others to play their part well and have as much passion as you do about performing a piece of art.