Should I rejoin the track team?
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5/8/2008 - 8/8/08
Question: I'm a 14-year-old female and was on the track team in sixth grade and the beginning of eighth. I quit, and I don't exactly know why. When my friends who are on the team talk about the meets, I wish I was still on the team. However, at the same time I don't like it because there's too much pressure to win. When I win a race, though, it really makes me feel good. I also like the popularity of being on the team. I can't decide whether I like track or not. I'm so confused so please give me some advice!Answer: You've done a lot of careful thinking about your feelings, and that is an excellent way to approach this problem. It sounds like the competitive aspect of win-or-lose sports makes you uncomfortable. It's great to win but hard to lose. Many people don't like this kind of pressure. It also sounds like you really miss the team spirit and popularity that come with playing sports. Like so many other choices in life, there will be pros and cons (risks and benefits) for whatever choice you make.
I'd suggest you talk with your track coach about your feelings. The coach will know more about your specific abilities and this team's situation. It may be that you could rejoin the team and work on ways to handle the stress and pressure of competition. Or you may decide not to compete, but to support the team in other ways. Or there may be other school activities that you have even more passion about, and if so, new friendships and a sense of belonging will develop with those. It's important that you feel self-confident and enjoy whatever you do, so explore your personal priorities and options. Don't be afraid to try something challenging, since that is how you learn and grow.
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