“Not Throwing Away my Shot”

In the musical “Hamilton” the phrase “I am not throwing away my shot” references the concept of wasting an opportunity.  I think all of us can relate with the idea, particularly when we go into ‘coulda woulda shoulda’ thinking as we rehash historical content with the means to shame, blame, and/or revalidate negative cognitions.  We “should” on ourselves a great deal, unfortunately. 

As humans, we have a tendency to avoid things that make us uncomfortable.  Fearing rejection so I do not put my application in for a promotion because I will not get it anyway.  Wearing a “Funny Guy” mask to gain attention because if I make them laugh then they will like me. Utilizing work as a means to distance myself from home because there is too much chaos there. Intentionally withdrawing my affection because they angered me, rather than resolving the conflict and speaking my truth.  We all wear masks and have protective parts that attempt to keep us safe and comfortable.  So when it comes to wasting an opportunity we also get to ask ourselves, “Is this my personal expectation or an expectation that was put on me” and also “Why am I afraid of throwing away my shot?”

Identifying our protective parts and following the line to what wound/negative thought/emotion they are attempting to keep us away from can provide us with a better understanding of Self as well as identify when various parts are driving our bus.  Determining the motivation behind the drive of not wasting our shot can also help to decide how much emphasis, time, and energy we are putting forth to ensure we grasp that opportunity.  I challenge each of us to identify those “wasted” opportunities and move towards giving our self grace and healing. The drive to “not give up my shot” became an obsession with Hamilton, which not only negatively impacted him but also caused a ripple effect with everyone and everything in the general vicinity. Finding the healthy balance while grasping hold of opportunities is important.  Moving away from thoughts about never being good enough and towards the concept of picking up healthy opportunities of my choice.  It is very possible to take hold of opportunities without allowing it to totally consume you.

On a side note:  Hamilton is an amazing musical (and movie) that I highly recommend, not only to observe the previously discussed concepts but to also provide historical content. Plus the music in and of itself is utterly genius.