EDIT: Thank you all so much for your thoughtful input. It means so much to me.
Hi, all. I'm looking to change my nasty tendency to be a sore loser, particularly when playing games. I tend to personalize losses that are of no consequence. When the game starts to shift against me, I often stop trying as hard because it feels hopeless. My partner is much more proficient at board games than I am, and I don't want this toxic trait of mine to make games less fun for us. What are some things you all tried to lessen this train of thought, if you've experienced it?
I mostly just switched away from competitive games (as in, games where you're playing against other players). It is supposed to be a leisure activity, after all. I found I felt bad if I won (because I made my opponent feel bad) and felt bad if I lost.
There's also the idea that the best board game experience is where all players had a good time. Paying attention to other players' needs might help reduce your own attention to your investment in the game.