As in sports, in many aspects of life, results matter. It goes beyond having a good game, and is measured on the outcomes.
Given the importance of outcomes in situations where they matter, it is probably worthwhile to work towards that goal. And if that means that the goal should be defined, then our first work is probably that.
In sports, you ensure that you beat the other side. As you press forward, you make sure that you also protect your back, so the opponent doesn’t score more than you do. The same is true for the results we seek. We have to work on both offense and defense.
Whereas you can train within rules, and master those rules in sports, in life, the advantage is that you can create your own rules, and play to your strengths.
All it might require is focus on what’s key for the goal.