I’m feeling really anxious about pursuing dance on my own. I’m not sure what my future holds, and my fear of doing things solo—especially when it seems like everyone else has a partner or a group—is really holding me back. Dancing has always been a dream of mine since I was little, but my family couldn’t afford lessons back then. Now that I’m older, I still want to dance, but it feels intimidating because most of my peers have years of experience, and I often feel like I don’t fit in.
I was excited about the opportunity to join pomline with a friend next year, but when she changed her mind, my nerves kicked in. I had promised myself I would still go for it, but now I’m nervous about being with kids a year younger than me, especially since I’ve heard some people say it might be embarrassing for kids in my grade.
Honestly, the only thing stopping me from pursuing pomline or asking my parents to enroll me in dance classes is my fear of being alone. It’s a constant struggle. I see everyone with their friends, and I can’t shake the feeling that I’m not only less experienced but also completely alone. I feel embarrassed and humiliated when I’m by myself while others are chatting and bonding with their friends.
This fear is what holds me back from so many things. It seems like everyone else does activities with their friends, which makes it hard for me to step outside my comfort zone. To give you some context, I’m an early high school student, and I just feel sad thinking that I may never get the chance to fulfill my dream of dancing and performing on stage.
It’s completely understandable to feel scared about pursuing something like dance, especially when you’re doing it alone or feel like you’re starting later than others. Many people share this fear of being alone, especially in social situations where it seems like everyone has their friend groups already established. Here are a few suggestions that might help you navigate these feelings:
Acknowledge Your Fear: It’s okay to feel scared and to acknowledge that fear. Understanding that it’s a normal feeling can sometimes make it easier to deal with.
Start Small: If you’re hesitant to jump into a dance class right away, perhaps start by trying some online classes or tutorials at home. This lets you gain confidence and find your love for dance again without the pressure of being around others.
Reach Out to Others: Consider reaching out to others who might also be interested in dancing. You could find someone in a similar situation or someone who’s also looking for a friend to join them in classes. There are often communities or online forums where you can connect with fellow dancers.
Join Activities That Interest You: If pomline is something you feel passionate about, don’t let the fact that your friend isn’t joining deter you. There are always new people joining teams, and it can be a great opportunity to make new friends who share your interests.
Focus on Your Passion: Remind yourself why you wanted to dance in the first place. The joy and fulfillment that dance can bring might outweigh the fear of being alone. Performing on stage is an incredible experience and worth pursuing for yourself.
Talk to Someone: Whether it’s a friend, family member, or counselor, talking about your fears and insecurities can provide support and encouragement. Sometimes, just voicing what you’re feeling can relieve some of the burden.
Realize Everyone Starts Somewhere: Remember that everyone had to start from square one at some point. The dancers you admire also had to learn, and it’s normal to feel out of place at first. With practice, you’ll build confidence and skill.
Lastly, don’t forget that your worth isn’t determined by how experienced you are or how many friends you have in a group. Pursuing what you love, like dance, is something that can bring joy and personal growth, even if it feels daunting at first. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and taking that first step can be incredibly empowering. Believe in yourself—you can do this!