More Than One Chance

I've never quite believed one chance is all I get.
- Anne Tyler -

The above quote is one of the most hope-filled statements I have ever heard. Unfortunately, many people feel just the opposite. They believe that you either get only one chance or a limited number of chances at what you want in life. And that is far from true.

There are many examples of people who have demonstrated the truth of Tyler’s quote with Michael Jordan being one of the most famous. As many of us already know, during high school, Jordan was not selected for the varsity basketball team. However, instead of getting upset with the coach or angry with himself, he spent the following summer relentlessly practicing and preparing for another opportunity. He realized he just might get another chance. His hard work paid off when he secured a spot on the team the following fall. From there, Jordan went on to become one of the true superstars in the NBA.

We must remember, as Tyler's quote indicates, we get many chances in life. We can come back from a defeat, from a rejection, and from things not going the way we planned. The key is not giving up. Instead, consider doing one or more of the following:

	Working harder
	Being more focused
	Getting help or advice
	Expanding your knowledge - taking classes, reading books, etc.
	Associating with friends, family and/or business colleagues who will encourage you
	Getting a coach or mentor
	Being open to changing your approach if what you are doing is not working

The above list is not an exhaustive one, but rather, it includes some of the actions you can consider when planning your personal comeback.

Believing we only have one chance can also keep people from even attempting to move forward on their goals and dreams. They do not pursue a new relationship, apply for their dream job, go after the promotion they deserve, or start a business in their field of interest. They put off what they want to do until it is the "perfect time," because they don’t want to blow their "one chance."

Many people wait until they have all the money they believe is needed, all the education they think is required, or all the experience they feel is necessary. They become endless "waiters and watchers" in life for fear of making a mistake. Don’t let this happen to you. If you have a goal or dream, move forward on it. You may need to get some help or assistance, as well as more education, experience, etc. along the way. However, you can get started right now with whatever knowledge and resources you have. Don’t let the thought that you only have one chance prevent you from taking action, even if it is just one small step.

Finally, let us not perpetuate the myth of "only one chance" when speaking with or about others. I get extremely frustrated and upset when I hear people remark how individuals have “really messed up their lives”. This comment is usually said in a way that indicates these people can never move past their mistakes, as if their entire lives will be defined by their past blunders. Instead of being so short-sighted, let us be a beacon of hope and encouragement when others are disheartened or downcast by misfortunes or mistakes. Instead of criticizing their errors, you can suggest that they try one or more of the seven actions outlined above. Instead of making disparaging comments, tell them “I don’t believe one chance is all you get … why don’t you give it another shot?” That may be all they need to begin again. And that could lead to them taking steps which can eventually result in their success.

I wish you the best of success in all your endeavors.

Donna Satchell, President of STARR Consulting & Training is a speaker, trainer and author. She provides programs in customer service, team-building, time management, public speaking as well as motivational speeches which inspire individuals to live more successful lives. Please visit www.JustGetSerious.com for information about products and services as well as to view videos of Donna’s speeches. Contact her at 770-498-0400 or Donna@JustGetSerious.com.

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