Last weekend, I played a game of pool while taking a short holiday at a beautiful resort with the family. I was playing pool almost after two decades and a half, and it sure did bring back memories of the day I played pool for the first time in my life, way back in my 20s.
Little did I realise then, that within that game of pool lay a metaphor for the journey I will be taking for the rest of my life.
In pool, the first shot you take, the initial potting of a ball, determines which set of balls you’ll be chasing throughout the game.
Much like life, where the choices we make set the course for our journey ahead. It’s a simple yet powerful concept that struck me as I navigated the cues and angles on the pool table.
Once that first ball is sunk, the entire game centres around the chosen set of balls.
Similarly, in life, once we commit ourselves to a certain path or make a significant decision, our journey becomes intricately tied to that choice.
Whether it’s choosing a career, pursuing a relationship, or embarking on a new adventure, our initial decisions shape the trajectory of our lives.
Like the game of pool, our choices in life come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Sometimes, the path we choose leads us to success, fulfilment, and happiness. Other times, it presents challenges, obstacles, and unexpected twists.
But regardless of the outcome, it’s the journey itself—the shots we take, the risks we brave, and the lessons we learn—that define our experiences.
In both pool and life, strategy is key. Every shot on the pool table requires careful planning, precision, and foresight.
Similarly, navigating through life demands strategic thinking, adaptability, and resilience. We must learn to assess the angles, adjust our approach, and sometimes even take bold shots to move forward.
Yet, just like in a game of pool, there are moments of uncertainty and unpredictability in life. Sometimes, despite our best efforts and meticulous planning, things don’t go as expected.
But it’s during these moments that we learn to improvise, to trust our instincts, and to persevere.
Ultimately, playing pool taught me that in both the game and life itself, success is not solely determined by the outcome, but by the choices we make along the way. It’s about embracing the journey, learning from our mistakes, and finding joy in the process.
So, as I chalked my cue and lined up my shot, I realized that the game of pool was more than just a recreational activity—it was a reflection of life’s journey, reminding me to approach each shot with intention, courage, and a willingness to embrace whatever path unfolds before me.
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See you soon…
Anand
