"You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take." – Wayne Gretzky

Take the Shot

Wayne Gretzky’s quote is a powerful reminder that inaction is the greatest barrier to success. To apply this in your life, start by identifying areas where fear or doubt might be holding you back. Whether it’s a career opportunity, a personal goal, or even starting a new hobby, remind yourself that every missed opportunity stems from not trying. Action, even if imperfect, always outweighs hesitation. Create a habit of asking yourself, “What’s the worst that could happen?” This can help diminish the fear of failure and push you toward taking that shot.

Break big goals into smaller, manageable actions to make taking the first step less intimidating. For instance, if you dream of starting a business, begin by researching your industry or reaching out to a mentor. Small wins build confidence and momentum, making each successive step easier. The act of trying itself is a victory, regardless of the outcome, because it sets you apart from those who hesitate. Reflect regularly on times you succeeded by simply taking a chance—it reinforces the power of action.

Lastly, cultivate a mindset that values progress over perfection. Not every shot will land, and that’s okay. Each attempt provides invaluable lessons and builds resilience. Surround yourself with a support system that encourages action, and focus on celebrating effort rather than only results. The more you take action, the more opportunities you create for success, turning missed chances into a thing of the past.