Positive Mindset by Taia

Positive Mindset by Taia - February 2017 Scholarship Essay

Failing is something that everyone is afraid of. I personally think that failing is such a huge learning opportunity that people sometimes take for granted. I know when I don't achieve something I want, I take time to reflect and think over my problems and learn how I can improve on them for the next time.

I had a really big dance performance I was working on for a long time. I put in countless of long and stressful hours preparing for the performance making sure everything was just right. I thought that I would nail it for sue and overall I felt so confident on making the part. This was something that I wanted more than anything. I was receiving doubts from dance partners about making it but I was just so determined to make them wrong. The big day finally came and as they called my name I could begin to feel my stomach get tight and fill up with huge swarming butterflies. I gripped the handrail tight as I got into 4th position. I had a sudden rush of doubt and regret as I lifted up in preparation for my leap. I let my nerves get the best of me and spiraled out my spin. I knew in that moment I had messed up everything. I immediately walked off stage as tears begin to well up in my eyes. Minutes later, I hear the news that I did not make the position I had been hoping for the longest time. I was devastated and couldn't stop crying.
2 years later, after much more practice and even more determination I go back to the exactly same stage and try it over again. Only this time, I nail my turn perfectly and finish proud in 2nd position. This is my lesson to myself that no matter what, it's never too late. So many things are possible with the right mindset. Every time I fail at something I remind myself of this exact moment when I rose up to the occasion and did even better than before. I plan to keep this outlook on everything and to never give up no matter the circumstance. I can only hope and pray to keep this with me at all times and remember to keep a positive mindset and I will always come out on top.