Dance teams can quickly become second families. The hard work and passion you put into your practices and performances bond you with your peers. These groups should be filled with laughs, encouragement, and never-ending support, but feeling left out on off-days or in the early stages of joining a new team is normal. These moments don’t have to last forever, but smoothing out those moments is a skill. Read on for tips to make your relationships with your teammates, new or old, stronger than ever.
Dealing with Awkward Moments
Sometimes the problem is a small issue that leaves you feeling a bit awkward. This can leave you feeling a bit out of place. Let’s build strategies for dealing with them!
Join the Conversation
If you feel left out of a conversation that you would like to be included in, find a time to join it. Listen actively and respond to add your voice! “That sounds fun,” “Any advice on…?” and other open-ended questions allow you to create space to add your ideas and opinions.
Keep it Friendly
It can be easy to get caught up in what-ifs. In most cases, your teammates aren’t trying to leave you out intentionally! Like you, they’re busy and going about their routines. A simple smile or “hi” can make a difference and reopen that space. It never hurts to be kind!
Deal with Bigger Problems
If feeling left out of the team starts to feel more intentional and less circumstantial, then it might be time to do something about it.
Talk it Out
If you feel comfortable and confident doing so, then it might be a good idea to have a calm and civil conversation with the person who is making you feel left out. Kindly explain how they are making you feel, as they might not even realize what they are doing.
Get Support
If a situations feels like too much to handle, reach out to someone you trust like a coach, teacher, parent, or trusted teammate. They might be able to guide you on how to handle the situation and lend a listening ear.
Know When to Get Help
If you are experiencing something that is making you feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or excluded, bring it up with a trusted adult. You deserve to feel confident, comfortable, and treated with respect.
