I get it. Going through middle school and high school, sports were my lifeline. Day and night, the only thing on my mind was when I would be able to go to practice or play in a game. As much as I love to reminisce about those days, there's a point in which we need to close the yearbook. This can be extremely hard to do, because it is very common for others to lookup to athletes. So, when someone asks if you still play a sport, your automatic default is to say you did in high school. To me, this is okay to say, but don't elaborate unless asked. We all know how annoying it can be when someone continuously tells us the same sports stories over and over.
So, here's some advice.
Please do not bring up your amazing sports moments that you can't seem to let go. In fact, all of those great wins and awesome plays may not be as awesome as you think. These athletes that are constantly dying to share their stories usually don't realize that they are the majority. Many, many people play sports throughout their lives. They also have those same similar stories. Those stories typically don't help you get a job.You can't put your batting average or free throw percentage on your resume. These things become insignificant the older you get.
This is easier said than done, and I can tell you that first hand. What I've come to realize is that there are so many other outlets in which I can continue to be athletic. My first attempt at busying myself with physical activity was simply to hit the gym. I purchased my gym membership and focused on creating challenging workouts. This opened a whole new world for me. If you are interested in workouts, you have so many to choose from. Just from YouTube you can get some great workouts, such as HIIT, yoga, pilates, and so many others. Now, this did fill my physical activity void, but there was still something missing: the competition.
For many of us, the best memories come from being a part of a team. You make great friends and have the best time together. On top of that, you were all working together to win. This is something that I felt I couldn't achieve at the gym. This is where I decided to seek out other people who are in the same situation. You would be surprised on how many people feel the same way. Please believe me when I say there is something out for you. Even if it's a group of people who get together once a week and play a pick up game of basketball. I've done so many things...I even joined a kickball league. This is a great way to get that team atmosphere and let your competitive side resurface.
Now, I'm not trying to undermine your accomplishments in the younger years of your life. You should be proud of them. However, I'm just trying to remind you that that was a very short part of your life. Life goes on, and you can continue to grow and accomplish more. So, let go. Don't hang on to every little moment. Keep going, and make more memories.
It's time to close the yearbook.
