The Day I Lost It All

It was to be the pinnacle of my career...
It was to be the highlight of my existence...
It was to be a moment to remember in history...

But it was never meant to be.

The night before, I slept fitfully, aware of the meeting with an important client for a multi-million dollar deal the next day. Clinching it would mean a promotion, a raise, hope for my family and hope for my future. I had worked so hard for this moment. And I overslept!

I had never overslept in my ten years on the job as I was an early bird. The night before the fateful day, I set not one, but two alarms. However, my excitement kept me awake and I decided to watch TV till late. Not the best of decisions. The alarm clocks didn't wake me. I awoke later with a fright, glanced at the clock and jumped in horror as I realized that I was already a good half hour late for my meeting with the client.

Through my best efforts, I made it to the venue an hour late and apologized profusely to my client but he told me the deal was off. Not only was the deal off, my promotion was off and even my job. I slumped into depression for a few months after that and only pulled myself together after a year or so.

The lesson learnt - remember to set three, not two alarms to wake you up (nah, give yourself enough sleep no matter what. It could be worth a million dollars!)