6.20 Takeoff: Why Timing Is Everything in the Game of Life

The Clock Never Waits

I still remember the panic in my college coach’s voice: “You’re late—again!” It wasn’t just about being behind schedule; it was about respect—your own, and the game’s. That moment taught me something deeper than any playbook: timing isn’t just practical—it’s powerful.

Fast forward to today. As a woman who grew up dribbling on cracked asphalt courts in Brooklyn and now breaks down WNBA plays for thousands online, I see this same truth echoing across arenas and boardrooms alike.

When Departure Means Destiny

That photo from June 20th—the boarding gate sign with ‘Departure Time’ stamped in bold—hit me harder than expected. It wasn’t just an airport image; it was a metaphor. In sports, culture, even personal growth: we don’t get second chances at our takeoff.

Think about it: A player missing tip-off because she overslept? A young athlete delaying her scholarship interview by one hour? We all know someone who let ‘just five more minutes’ cost them everything.

This isn’t just about punctuality—it’s about ownership of your time.

The Real MVPs Aren’t Always on the Court

WNBA stars like Breanna Stewart or Caitlin Clark don’t win games by showing up late—they win by showing up early, prepared, mentally sharp. And their fans? They show up too—not just for the game, but for the message: excellence is scheduled.

In my work as a digital content strategist for women’s sports startups, I’ve seen brilliant creators vanish not from lack of skill—but because they didn’t protect their time like it mattered.

It matters.

Time as Power (And How to Claim It)

Let me be real: life doesn’t send reminders before you miss your flight—or your chance at a dream job or a meaningful conversation with someone you love.

So here’s what I do now:

• Set alarms that shout (yes, literally).
• Block calendar ‘arrival windows’ 15 minutes before every meeting—even virtual ones.
• Write down my daily ‘takeoff ritual’: hydration first, then intention setting.

Because courts aren’t just arenas—they’re classrooms. And every minute counts.

Your Moment Is Coming… But Is It Ready?

We keep chasing big moments—the promotion, the contract offer, the viral post—but what if we’re not actually preparing for them?

The real question isn’t “When will my opportunity come?” It’s “Am I ready when it does?”

On June 20th—and every day—I remind myself: Your time is your most valuable asset. Don’t treat it like luggage you can check last-minute.