My title this month is a funny metaphor for a common opinion I saw written on a bathroom wall. The gist of the graffiti was that the first mouse must die springing the trap before the second one gets the prize.

After observing big failures, it’s human nature to be a little wary of trying new things. Fear of failure tends to make us less likely to take risks even if we’re not putting our lives in jeopardy. No one likes to lose money or even lose face on an idea that doesn’t work.

Another anonymous bathroom wall writer phrased the same sentiment this way: Eagles may soar, but weasels never get sucked into airplane engines. In short, many people are motivated by security. And when I observe the differences between my two sons, I can see how it happens.

My first son, by virtue of birth order, had to be a trailblazer. He was first to play soccer, baseball, and basketball, attend Cub Scouts, and go to school. Meanwhile, my second son, forced to sit on the sidelines and watch, enjoyed all the benefits of seeing his big brother struggle, thus learning what to avoid. When his turn to try those things finally arrived, he was prepped and succeeded quickly and easily.

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