We all have an expiration date.

  

Wow - That is a depressing statement isn't it!

 

However true that statement may be, most of us don't like to think about it. What if you could take that expiration date and turn it into a clock. No, not a clock counting down to your demise. Let's think of it as a game clock. You know, like the one they use in the NBA.  

 

So now that we are creating a good mental picture, let's go with it. Life is the game and you have a game clock.  Every great athlete is going to fight the clock. Not to try and stop it, but to try and accomplish the most they can during their allotted time. We even have quarters, or periods, depending on what picture you have in your head.

 

1st Quarter - Rookie  / Birth to 22 Years 

We have all had a rookie season. Some rookies put in the time practicing, drilling, asking questions, and listening to the answers. Others sit and watch. They are either afraid to get in the game, or use the fact that they a rookie as an excuse for their mistakes.

 

Can you see the comparison? New Job? New Career? New Marriage? Insert your item here and the lesson still applies. Dive in head first. Get involved in your life. The next three quarters will all depend on what you do in the first. 

 

2nd Quarter - Player   / 23 to 39 Years 

Now your not a rookie any more. You are on the field playing a part in the game that is your life. There are still a few people telling you what to do, but for the most part, it is up to you to make it happen.  Most importantly, there are new rookies on the team. Now you can start working on your leadership and mentoring skills. It is vital that you hone your skills by passing them on to the next generation. 

 

3rd Quarter - Team Captain   40 to 60 Years 

Your The "Veteran". Everyone is looking to YOU for leadership. Your organized and know the game by heart. You have a specific game plan and know where you are going. Most importantly you are leading the team to success or failure. They are going to follow you where ever you are taking them. Now is the time to "Inspire" them to become the leaders of tomorrow.

 

Who is your team. It's your family, friends and co-workers. Where are you leading them. Well, that depends on your plan. Are you leading a life of excellence, and maximizing your potential? Are you in shape? Are you eating correctly? Are you financially responsible? If you can answer  yes to all of these, then you are definitely "Inspiring" those around you to do the same.  

 

 

4th Quarter - Coach   61 And Beyond

You finally made it to the top. So now is your time to coast... right?  Although I have not yet made it to this stage, I can not imagine quitting in the 4th Quarter. Now I don't mean that I plan on working until the buzzer sounds, but I do  plan on still being in the game. Now is the time to leave your legacy on the game. Share your wisdom and experience. Take in a rookie, or a whole team of rookies if you can. Show them how to achieve the greatness that you have accomplished through hard work and striving for the very best from yourself in all areas of life. 

 

Remember, you have a set amount of time in each day, week, month, and year. The same holds true for your life. Make the most of each moment, and share it with someone in a way that they can look up to you and say,"I want some of what they have. How did they do it, and what do I need to do to get there?"

 

 

          

    Sa Bum Nym Jason