Be flexible. In volleyball, no matter how tall or strong the hitter, the perfect set will mean nothing if one major variable of the equation is out of balance: the timing. If the hitter jumps too early or too late, they have failed. Though we’d much rather avoid failure, how are we supposed to get any better at our craft if we don’t learn from our mistakes?

In a world filled with countless things to fear, one of the scariest might just be a one-sided love. In a relationship, timing is everything. If the attraction between both parties doesn’t start simultaneously, the chances for future success are unbearably slim. However, regardless of the odds, one can’t give up. If you throw in the towel due to humiliation or spite, the odds only continue to diminish.

In volleyball when hitters sense an off hit, they’ll adjust their bodies and tip the ball to try scoring a different way. In love, not all pairs are guaranteed to be a smash. However, just because the timing is off or the feelings aren’t mutual, doesn’t mean there isn’t any probability of future success. No two people ever fit perfectly together like a key and a lock. Rather, one must take the time to study the lock and all of its intricate details in order to mold into the perfect fit.

Be daring. The last practice, the last cookie and the last day of school: there’s something about the “last” that makes it so bittersweet. Perhaps it’s the realization that the last time so often occurs without us ever truly knowing it. While life’s unfamiliarity and curveballs are a plenty, the opportunities they grant are abysmal. Life’s too unpredictable to wait for the next opportunity, because quite frankly, the next opportunity may never come.

Falling in love amidst the most precious and carefree time of our lives. What more could we possibly ask for? Though easier said than done (much easier), when a love begins to bud, there’s no better time to pursue it than when your feelings demand it the most. There are too many external variables that can drastically alter the direction a relationship can take. Ignoring a text because you’re trying to play “hard-to-get”, or using the excuse the “timing’s not right” to not talk to him/her can all result in the deterioration of your lover’s interest.

Whether it’s walking him/her to their car at the end of the school day, or adjusting your walking pace to be sure you meet up with them after a class, take advantage of each of the opportunities presented. Life is painstakingly short, youth is unbearably awkward and first love is invaluable. There is nothing more urgent than the now.

Be selfless. Badminton — specifically doubles — is a team sport. In comparison to a relationship, these two players must become acquainted with one another, adapt to each other’s style of play, survey their weakness, and eventually, harness the other’s strengths to succeed.

In reality, however, maintaining a strong relationship is never as easy as it seems. Like all couples, badminton pairs inherently boast their own set of faults. For example, if one is unfit, they’ll miss a number of attacking opportunities. If one’s too slow, they’ll be unable to return the opponent’s smashes. Regardless of your opponent or partner, there has to be a winner — meaning, the two must fight through.

Rather than wasting a season, sullenly and soullessly awaiting an end, sometimes enduring a painful confrontation with a teammate may just be the best solution. If we love a person enough, if we love a sport enough, we will have the strength to overcome the uncomfortable situations — that’s love. Maybe love is a lot more like badminton than we think.