When I was in 8th grade, I kept to myself. I did a lot of thinking about what I could do to get out of my comfort zone a little more. I had always been fascinated by cheerleading; I found it to be the coolest thing. When I was in elementary school I signed up for a cheerleading camp that lasted two days. I was so excited, but after I walked in and saw all the kids and older cheerleaders running this camp, I got terrified and ran out crying. After that, I realized I have extreme anxiety when it comes to interactions that are new to me.

As I got older I found that my anxiety had gotten worse because I sheltered myself. I wanted to try something different. So my friend convinced me to try out for cheerleading. My freshman year of high school, I was a cheerleader, and I loved it. At first, it was hard because it was all new to me, and it was a new group of girls that I didn’t always feel close to. As the year went on, I got better and fell in love with cheer. Football games made me feel free. I didn't feel stressed or anxious.

Now, as a sophomore, I still cheer. I still love it just as much. But I want to try something new again. Some of the girls from the cheer team I have gotten close with had convinced me to try softball. I love it almost just as much as cheer. I am being pushed to reach goals I didn’t know I would have.

Softball is a mental sport. I am having to work on a new mindset when playing softball. I am new to this sport, but all the other girls have been playing for years. So as I play and make mistakes, it gets to me, but I don't let it discourage me because the girls are so kind and helpful. They make me feel like a part of the team. I am learning to be coachable, kind, and strong. I am pushing my mind and my body to new limits to work harder at the sport.

I feel like these two sports are going to help me a lot in the future with my anxiety and my social skills. I am already feeling better about myself. I see that the girls on the team have all been where I am, and they are so understanding and kind. These girls feel like family, and it’s only day three of practice. I have forced myself out of my comfort zone, and it is one of the best things I have done for myself. I have noticed a difference in myself. A difference in my mind and body. Taking the risk of trying something new every once in a while is such a great thing and helps find new connections not only in myself but with others as well.

I am so lucky to have people in my life to push me. I feel so good about myself and who I am becoming. I don’t feel trapped in my anxiety and mental health. I feel free out of my comfort zone.

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