Centeno settles for runner-up in Las Vegas

5 Lessons Learned from Centeno's Runner-up Finish in Las Vegas

Filipino cue artist Chezka Centeno's recent runner-up finish in the Las Vegas Women's Open serves as a valuable reminder that setbacks can be opportunities for growth and learning. As we reflect on her experience, we can distill five key takeaways that apply to professionals and non-professionals alike.

Lesson 1 Cultivate Self-Compassion

Centeno acknowledges that she wasn't at her absolute best during the tournament yet still chose to show up and fight for herself. This mindset is essential in overcoming setbacks and learning from mistakes. It's crucial to strike a balance between self-criticism and self-compassion, just as Centeno's cue ball hits the pocket with precision.

Lesson 2 Treat Every Experience as an Opportunity for Growth

Centeno sees every loss as part of her journey, an opportunity to learn and grow. This attitude is vital for professionals looking to refine their skills and adapt to new challenges. Recognizing that time is ticking and every experience counts in our professional development, we must be willing to learn from each setback.

Lesson 3 Trust in the Universe's Plan

Centeno chooses to trust that what's meant for her will never pass her by. This lesson reminds us to have faith in ourselves and the universe, even when faced with uncertainty. By trusting our instincts and navigating life's twists and turns with confidence, we can overcome adversity.

Lesson 4 Prioritize Self-Care

Centeno shows up for herself, despite not feeling her absolute best. This lesson emphasizes the importance of self-care and prioritizing one's own well-being in the face of adversity. By taking care of ourselves, we can build resilience and inner strength.

Lesson 5 View Losses as Opportunities for Growth

Centeno sees every loss as an opportunity to learn and grow. This lesson reminds us that setbacks are an inevitable part of the journey and can ultimately lead to greater success. By acknowledging our mistakes and using them as stepping stones for future growth, we can refine our skills and achieve our goals.

As professionals in 2026, let these lessons serve as reminders that setbacks are opportunities for learning, growth, and refinement.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.