If you're lucky enough then you have one activity that is close to your heart, and you have the privilege of being able to pursue that hobby at college or whatever point of life you are at right now. This hobby is special for many reasons -- perhaps you're amazing at it, you love the way it makes you feel, it gives you a great support system, it's been there for you your entire life and you're known for it. Either way, it's your "thing". Now imagine having to leave this hobby, or at the very least take a break from it. It requires too many hours, and can be physically and mentally draining at times.
How does one have room for grades, an outstanding gpa, and most of all proper mental health in the midst of midnight practices that run till the morning and nation-wide competitions that cost entire weekends? The answer: one doesn't.
I love my dance team more than I care to admit, it gave me everything in college that I needed as a freshman. It continues to support me even after I've decided to take a break from it. But, I had to first come to terms with the fact that it was taking more from me than I was getting in return. At the end of the day, this team is only going to last four years of my life -- whereas my career is a lifetime.
In a world where there's so much pressure to compare and take on more and more, it feels cowardly to take a step back and -- god forbid -- make a decision just for yourself. I was held back by the thought "oh my teammates are able to balance dance and school, why can't I?". I realized that it's okay to let myself be different, and to understand that everyone's life is different.
Using an interesting combination of hindsight and hope, I look forward to a calmer year ahead filled with self-improvement, sleep, studying, leisure time, and growth. The sacrifice feels less of a sacrifice thinking of all the possibilities.