Behind the Eight Ball - Written by Wanda Rodriguez - Written on June 9, 2025 - Published on June 9, 2025

Behind the Eight Ball

Written by Wanda Rodriguez

Written on June 9, 2025 

Published on June 9, 2025

The most popular theory about the phrase, “Behind the 8-Ball” stems from the game of pool (aka billiards).  If you are not familiar with the intricacies of the game, I will do my best to offer an abridged explanation.  Pool basically refers to a large table game with 16 balls and a long stick (cue).  Seven of these balls are most commonly referred to as solids (or small) because of their solid color.  These balls are numbered 1-7.  Another set of seven balls are usually referred to as stripes (or big) because of the white stripe that breaks up the solid color.  These balls are numbered 9-15.  The two remaining balls are called the 8-ball (solid black with the #8 on it) and the cue ball (solid white).  The cue ball is used during each player's turn and works, in conjunction with the cue, as a catalyst to sink the numbered balls into one of the six pockets on the table.  Each player (or pair) has either solids or stripes and attempts to be the first to pocket all 7 of their balls (either all solids or all stripes).  

The 8-ball is supposed to be the last ball played, by either side, following successful potting of the initial seven. If you have the misfortune of sinking the 8-ball before your others have all gone in, you automatically lose (“You get nothing! You lose! Good day, sir!” - Willy Wonka).  If one of your balls is sitting neatly behind the 8-ball, that’s a bummer for you because it limits options and access to your balls.  In most cases, hitting the 8-ball first is allowed (as long as it does not go in) but arguably frowned upon.  The phrase “Behind the 8-Ball” typically refers to someone being in a bad position or just behind in general (timewise).  Much like your numbered ball sitting behind the 8-ball in the game of pool is less than ideal, if you say, “I am behind the 8-ball,” you are saying that you are behind or that things are not as you would prefer at that given moment.

All of that being said, I am officially behind the 8-ball!

Don’t fret.  I tend to take up permanent residence behind that ball!  We have grown quite close over the years.  I carry a small 8-ball keychain with me, and I keep a regulation size one in my desk drawer, as a daily reminder of this fact.   In my case, being behind the 8-ball mostly deals with time and the shortage of it when I need to get things done.  This is not to say that I don’t have enough time to get the things done that I would like to accomplish.  It is more to the point to address the blatant mismanagement of the time that I do have!  I have addressed time on this blog before, and it is likely to be a recurring theme as it continues to be a stumbling block for me.  It is something I am aware of and working on.  Putting the first things first.  Trying not to take on more than I should.  Knowing when and how to say no (and yes for that matter!).  Setting realistic expectations, goals and deadlines.  Establishing routines (especially for the things I hate dealing with like bills and emails) and guidelines.  Remembering always (Which I do not always do!!  This is a reminder to myself!!) to put God first in all things.  The rest will fall naturally into place.  You just need to stick with it and keep trying to get yourself out from behind that 8-Ball!!  

Thank you for joining me on my journey.  In case this brief entry did not make a lot of sense to you, please note that today is Monday and I try to post every Wednesday and Sunday!!  Whoops!!  Aiming for a cleaner shot (away from the 8-ball) come Wednesday.  -Wanda