A drug user who scuffled with his stepfather and police was told by a judge: "Take a grip on your life."
The advice was given as John Podgorski appeared at Nottingham Crown Court where he was given a nine-month prison sentence.
The court heard that drugs had caused a range of problems for Podgorski, 36, of Goose Gate in the city.
Recorder Nicholas Syfret QC told him: "You have got one shot at life. This is not a dress rehearsal.
"You are ruining your life through drugs and you are ruining the lives of others, people undoubtedly you love, making it unbearable too.
"You are coming up to 37 - take a grip on your life," the Recorder added.
Podgorski admitted battery, theft, assaulting an emergency worker on July 25 and damaging property.
David Lee, prosecuting, said that Podgorski clashed with his stepfather, and around £175 was taken from a wallet.
When detained, Podgorski struggled with a police officer and kicked a window in a cell. At the time, he appeared to be under the influence of drugs, added Mr Lee.
Podgorski is expected to be released immediately because of the time he spent in custody awaiting sentence.
The Recorder banned him from contacting his stepfather for six months.
