One Shot

In the song, Lose Yourself, Eminem raps about having just one shot at seizing opportunities and realizing dreams. This message has resonated with me these past two weeks watching real-life drama unfolding at the Olympics: athletes at the top of their game performing on the world’s largest stage. Whether it’s the individual triumphs of international stars Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt or the heartbreak of Canadian Triathlete Simon Whitfield or the Canadian Women’s soccer team playing their hearts out. All seizing the opportunity and striving to do their best with their one shot at realizing their dreams.

For those of us who have been captivated by the Games there are likely a variety of reasons why we have tuned in. One reason I find this to be compelling drama is that there are no guarantees. Medals are not handed out for simply showing up, and all that hard work and preparation does not guarantee a medal. It all comes down to that one shot, and dreams will either be realized or shattered based on that one shot.

Interestingly though, it is not always the end result of a gold, silver or bronze that has left me inspired. I have been equally in awe by watching athletes giving it their best effort and observing the satisfaction that comes from knowing they gave it their best. Perhaps that is something we can relate with in terms of pursuing the dreams in our own lives, whatever those dreams may be.

This comes to mind as I near the final stage of editing for my manuscript The Killer Trail. I am excited to see the culmination of a lot of work and energy and yet at the same time, it is not clear what the end result will be and whether it will lead to an agent or publisher. There are no guarantees. Other than the guarantee to myself of giving it my best shot.

Whatever your ‘one shot’ may be, make it count!