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For the first two years of being a part of my competitive dance team I was the youngest on the team.  I was somewhat confident going into being a part of the team but quickly learned that some of my skills were not at the same level as others.  Which makes me think of another possible blog post but we'll keep that one for next time.  Okay now where was I?  Oh yes, skill levels.  So I would find myself being very hard on myself and I'd easily get frustrated.  I would think to myself will I ever get this?  Why is it so hard?  Why is learning this choreography so hard?  I would cry all the time.  So what helped me get over this obstacle?  My teammates, my teacher and my mom!  

First my teammates!  They were the most supportive of all.  They'd encourage me over and over and they never, ever gave up on me.  If they saw that was about to break down they'd cheer for me even more.  They pull me aside and give me a hug or after class they'd share encouraging words!  I am beyond thankful to each and everyone of them because without them I'd probably would have given up.  Today they are my rock and together we can and are accomplishing so much!  

Next my teacher!  During a master class I had a complete melt down because I just wasn't getting it.  After the class, my teacher took me aside and asked me, what class are you have the hardest time in?  My answer to her was Hip Hop!  So what was her suggestion?  She told me take a month off from the class and if after a month you don't miss it drop the class.  Focus on your other classes that you love or that you're not having a hard time in and reevaluate after the month.  So I did just that and I also added a class with this teacher.  Well I excelled in her class and she gave me the confidence boost I was needing!  I ended up going back to Hip Hop and it was the best decision I could have done.  Now I'm on the Hip hop team and I'm having the time of life!  

Last but definitely not least my mom!  She has been my number one cheerleader, counselor, and pep talker!  She was my confidence, she would talk to me over and over about how talented I was and that she understood my frustration but wasn't going to let my mind get in the way of my passion!  She quickly figured out that picking up choreography was my number downfall.  So what did she do??? She started taking me to classes outside of my studio.  These class were all about learning combos and learning them quickly. It was little scary at first and completely out of my comfort zone but it truly helped me break the block I had created in my head.  I finally started having fun, enjoying myself and as a result my studio classes were fun again.  My mind and body were once again on the same page and my confidence was building.  

Today, I sometimes still get a little frustrated but when I start to feel overwhelmed I take a deep breath and I tell myself, "Anis you've got this! You can do it!  I hope my story inspires you if you're ever feeling the same way I once felt.  You too can overcome this my friend and if you need to talk I'm your girl!  

XOXO, 

Anis