In honor of second chance month, we want to talk about second chances. At some point in our lives, we are bound to get a second chance at something. Sometimes, it’s life as a whole, such as leaving prison and re-entering society. Sometimes, it’s for smaller tasks, friendships, relationships, and so on. Second chances are everywhere. So how do we make the most of them?
Recognize what you learned:
So you’re getting a second chance, that’s incredible. But what did you learn from the first chance you had? Do you recognize the mistake you made? How are you going to avoid making the same mistake? Think of this step as the reflection portion of your second chance. This is where you have the opportunity to admit to the mistakes in the past and learn from them. The best thing you can do is talk through what you’ve learned from your past to the people (or person) giving you this second chance.
People forgive, but they don’t forget:
When you receive a second chance, you tend to think all is forgotten about and that’s the end of it. Unfortunately, that’s not always how it works. It’s important to understand that while you may have been forgiven for what you’ve done, it doesn’t mean anyone has forgotten about it. The past may be behind you, but it doesn’t mean it’s entirely over. Obviously, it varies depending on each person’s situation, but when a second chance is given, it’s important to know not everything is settled. There may still be some lingering feelings or problems and you have to be willing and able to talk those things out with whoever needs to.
Show you’ve changed:
Now that you’ve recognized what it is you did wrong and you’ve talked through any leftover feelings, it’s time to take action. Now is the time to show you’ve changed. Anyone can say they made a mistake and have learned from it, but the people who really mean it will be more than just talk. This is the step where you take action and put your plan to make the most of this second chance into action.
Be grateful, pay it forward:
What makes a second chance so special is that, no matter what your situation may be, nobody has to give you one. Whoever is giving you this second chance is doing so because they clearly care about you. So if you’re given a second chance, don’t take it for granted. Be grateful for it. Say and show how much this second chance means to the person who gave it to you. While you’re at, pay it forward and give a second chance to someone who may have wronged you in the past. The best way to move forward from your past is to make peace with it.
Be sure to sign up for a newsletter below to receive email notification for new blogs, exclusive offers, and updates on all things TYRO.