By focusing on activities wherein, even if we fail, we still benefit in some way, we cannot lose.
This means involving ourselves in tasks, projects, and relationships that benefit us simply by our having participated in them.
In other words, if the experience itself is rewarding in some way that is of greater value than the resources we expend, there is simply no downside for us.
This is not selfish. It is purely practical. We should look for ways to win even if we fail.