You get one chance. You have to lay it all on the line. There’s no turning back. You’re given only one opportunity to shine. Have you ever been there?

We are once again in the midst of post-season baseball. The first two games are wild card games for each league, winner-take-all. If you win you move on. If you lose you go home. You play 162 games only to have your fate decided by one single game.

Have you ever been in a situation like that? You’ve worked hard on a presentation, but you only have one chance to share it. You’re training hard for a race and you have only one chance to beat your personal record. You’ve been studying all semester for one test that will open the door to your dreams.

What do you do when you have only one chance?

1. Rely on what you know. If you’ve put in the time and work there’s nothing more you can do. Rest on your preparation and use it as it comes in the moment.
2. Put it all on the line. What’s the use in leaving anything behind. When you have only one chance give it all you’ve got.
3. Don’t worry about tomorrow. As Jesus said, “tomorrow will have worries of its own.” Do what you can right now, while you can.
4. Stay calm and “within yourself.” It’s OK to be a little nervous. It adds to your energy and adrenaline. But if you let it get out of control it could be detrimental. A calm, but nervous energy could be just what you need to perform at a high level.
5. Enjoy it. There are only so many one-time chances you get in life. Instead of being nervous or worried, enjoy the moment. You may never be there again.

What advice would you give to someone who only has one chance?