Finding Your Passion in High School: 5 Ways to Build Courage to Get Involved
College and high school can feel like a whirlwind, right? Between classes, homework, and trying to figure out who you are, it can be a lot. But here's the thing: high school is also an amazing time to discover what truly excites you.
I want to tell a story about Alex and share 5 tips on how to build your confidence to try out new things.
The Start of Something New
Meet Alex. Alex was a year 9 student who felt pretty lost. Year 8 had been a big year with lots of friendship changes and changes about how Alex felt about themselves. Sport had been a big part of how Alex stayed involved at Intermediate school but an ex-friend was on the one team Alex might have considered trying out for, and so it didn’t seem like an option anymore. It didn't help that every day at college seemed like a repeat of the last: wake up, go to school, come home, do homework, sleep, and repeat.
Alex wasn't unhappy, but something was definitely missing. One day, during lunch, Alex overheard some classmates talking about the school’s drama club. They were excitedly discussing their upcoming play, and their enthusiasm was contagious. Alex had always thought that drama was kind of embarrassing and had never really had the courage to get up in front of other people. But those classmates were funny and really likable, and Alex had to make a decision on whether they were willing to try something new.
Curious, Alex decided to check it out. The first meeting was nerve-wracking. Alex didn't know anyone and felt super out of place. Heart pounding, sweaty palms, and a huge dose of discomfort pretty much defined that first 40 minute meeting at lunch time. There were lots of moments were Alex would have gladly left.
But then, something magical happened. The drama teacher welcomed Alex with a warm smile. The group was diverse, with students from all years and backgrounds, but they all shared a love for theater. Alex felt a spark of excitement.
Finding Your People
As the weeks went by, Alex started to feel more at home in the drama club. The rehearsals were intense, but they were also a lot of fun. Alex discovered a passion for acting that had been hidden all along. It wasn't just about performing; it was about being part of a team, creating something together, and expressing emotions in a way that felt freeing. Alex had felt something similar when doing sport, and loved the sense of community that was build when there was a shared goal.
One day, after a particularly challenging rehearsal, Alex stayed behind to talk to the teacher. "I never thought I'd enjoy this so much," Alex admitted. The teacher smiled and said, "That's the beauty of trying new things. You never know what you'll find until you give it a shot."
Overcoming Challenges
Of course, it wasn't always smooth sailing. There were times when Alex felt overwhelmed with balancing schoolwork and rehearsals. There were moments of self-doubt, especially when learning lines or performing in front of an audience. But with the support of the drama club and teacher, Alex pushed through.
One memorable moment was the night of the big performance. Alex was so nervous, heart pounding, but as soon as the lights came up and the audience started to applaud, all the anxiety melted away. The feeling of accomplishment and joy was indescribable. Alex realized that this was more than just a hobby; it was a passion. It was even more powerful because it had felt like a long time since Alex was sure about who they were and what they wanted.
The Ripple Effect
Getting involved in the drama club had a ripple effect on Alex's life. It boosted confidence, improved public speaking skills, and even helped with making new friends. Alex started to see school in a new light, not just as a place for academics but as a community with endless opportunities to explore and grow.
Your Turn
So, what about you? Maybe drama isn't your thing, and that's okay.
High school has so many ways to connect! Clubs, sports, production, volunteering, committees, and activities. Whether it's joining the debate team, trying out for the soccer team, or volunteering for a cause you care about, there's something out there for everyone.
The key is to take that first step. It might be scary, and you might feel out of place at first, but remember Alex's story. Finding your passion and who you are is a journey to enjoy. Every step you take brings you closer to discovering what makes you tick.
5 Tips for Building Courage
Building courage is essential for stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things. Here are some tips to help you develop courage:
Start Small: Begin with small steps. If joining a club feels too daunting, start by attending a meeting as an observer. Bring a friend with you. Do this is many, especially in term 1.
Positive Self-Talk: Encourage yourself with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of past successes and strengths. You are an awesome contributor and person - remind yourself!
Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a counsellor about your fears. Sometimes, just sharing your worries can make them feel more manageable.
Embrace Mistakes: Understand that making mistakes is a part of learning. Each setback is an opportunity to grow and improve. Very few things are truly impossible, so try again.
Visualize Success: Imagine yourself succeeding in the new activity. What would it feel like to fit it? How would it feel to find something you really love? Visualization can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.
Final Thoughts
As a counsellor, I've seen countless students like Alex who realised their passions and strengths by having the courage to get involved.
It's not just about filling up your schedule; it's about finding what makes you feel alive and connected. So, take a chance, try something new, and who knows? You might just find your own version of the drama club.
Remember, high school is a time for exploration and growth. You will make mistakes, but make them with enthusiasm. Embrace it, and you'll come out the other side with a clearer sense of who you are and what you love. And if you ever need guidance or support, know that I'm here to help you navigate this exciting journey.
You've got this!