We all know that feeling of performing your last show. Everything seems so magical and precious–the sparkling crowd, the arena (or gym lights), the way that the floor seems to glisten and every passing moment seems stronger than the last. And throughout the entire performance, we hold on to that feeling, cherishing it more and more as each second passes.
Except when we can’t because we don’t know that it’s our last performance.
The saying “Perform every show like it’s your last” is not just something that your instructors yell at you to go more full out–they want you to understand how precious each moment is because nothing is guaranteed. As many performers spun their last show without knowing it this year, there’s no heartbreak quite like feeling like you missed out on something that was once yours. I’m here to tell you that it’s okay to feel those feelings. In fact, I would recommend that you sit in those feelings for as long as you need to.
Whether you’re a recent graduate who had to end their season early thanks to Miss ‘Rona, and age-out who can’t take advantage of the extra gifted year, or a rising senior who’s season is up-in-the air right now, I’m here to help you navigate these feelings and avoid falling victim to a destructive mindset.
Create the Space to Grieve.
This is so so important. A lot of times when it comes to this activity, we downplay our emotions because “it’s not important in the real world”. News flash, colorguard is a part of your world and it’s important to you, so it matters. You are allowed to feel. You are allowed to cry. You are allowed to make space to learn about and process your feelings about the whole situation.
Practice Gratitude.
I start out each morning by writing out a few things that I’m grateful for in my life, and when I tell you that it’s changed EVERYTHING…it’s changed everything. While having to miss out on your upcoming season or having one cut short sucks a lot, reflect on the time that you did get to spend in your program. Did you become a stronger performer? What did you learn about colorguard and about life? Have you built strong bonds with your team? What good came out of the season and/or your time with your program?
Talk To Your Team (or Instructor).
You don’t have to go through this alone because you aren’t alone. Reach out to your friends and your support system (while social distancing and wearing a mask if in person) to help you through your feelings (just make sure that they have the capacity to hear about your feelings before you begin venting).
Spin. Or Don’t.
Listen, we all cope in different ways. Some people decided to write a ton of choreography and share it online this summer. Some people didn’t want to be within 100 feet of a flag. Either way, it’s okay! You shouldn’t feel like you have to do anything. If you wanna spin, spin. If you just want to sit on the couch and eat chips, do that.
Do Something that You Love.
As mentioned in the previous point, this can be spinning. But it doesn’t have to be. Go dance or draw or ride your bike or cook! Literally you can do what ever you want (as long as it’s legal). Just do something that lights your soul on fire.
Realize That Your Identity is Placed in More Than One Thing.
I don’t care how long you’ve been a part of this activity. YOU. ARE. SO. MUCH. BIGGER. THAN. ONE. THING.
Read that again.
Good.
If this was your last season, guess what? You are still you. You are so multifaceted and have so much to offer the world! Your gifts extend beyond one area of your life, and it’s important that you realize that. After all, when one door closes, another opens.
Understand That No Matter How Badly it Hurts, it will Pass.
Time (despite it being a social construct) has a way of healing. Allow yourself to breathe through this time and heal.
Yes, your physical body too, I know you have a ton of unchecked injuries that you need to take care of.
Did your season get cut short? Leave your feelings and experiences below! And don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to the email list!
