First Down

First downs represent progress. They move you closer to your goal, each one compounding to put you in scoring position. Without first downs, you can’t stay on the field, achieve your desired results, or win.

In football, this is obvious yet in life, I often fail to appreciate the value of a first down. I’m always facing first and ten, never first and goal, because I keep moving the end zone with every yard gained, redefining what it means to win. This constant chase, without reflecting on progress, robs me of the progress I’ve earned. In sports, the narrative is the same: win the game? Great—run it back. Win the championship? Great—run it back. And if you didn't win? That's right - run it back. The game only ends if you quit.

Not every possession ends with points. Don't allow this to turn you away. Appreciate the value a first down creates. Stack them. Celebrate and enjoy the progress, not just the outcome. Whether you win or lose, keep playing the game - and play it better.