Everyone knows the most important seasons: summer, fall, winter, spring…and prom. As we enter May, there are few conversations high schoolers are having that don’t revolve around prom. But as the fateful day comes near, preparing for prom can start to feel a little overwhelming. If you’re nervous about attending prom, here are a few of our tips for overcoming the most common prom-inducing nerves.
“I don’t have a date”
Plenty of people don’t have dates! Instead of putting so much pressure on yourself to find the perfect date, go with a group of friends you already know you have a great time with. And who knows, maybe you’ll even meet someone there who also didn’t go with a date!
“I can’t dance”
Despite what movies like Footloose and Step Up will have you thinking, high schools aren’t filled with expert dancers and choreographed musical numbers. Don’t let the fear of a little dancing keep you from experiencing all the night has to offer. When your favorite song comes on, get out there in a big crowd and just have fun. And if you’re really nervous about dancing, just remember that there is so much more to do at prom than hangout on the dance floor. There will likely also be dinner, a photo booth, and even games.
“I can’t find the perfect dress”
Sure prom can be nerve-racking, sometimes even downright stressful, but that doesn’t mean you should let those nerves get the best of you. Here are just a few reasons why prom is not only fun, it’s important!
- It commemorates the end of high school. You’ve worked hard for four long years and it’s finally time to graduate. Let yourself celebrate and enjoy completing this major accomplishment!
- It’s a memory you’ll look back on for years. In 10 years, you’ll be with your high school friends saying, “remember when that happened at prom?” It’s important to have and share in those special memories from when you were younger.
- It’s good to do what scares you. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “do one thing every day that scares you.” Sometimes, getting out of your comfort zone is a good thing. Don’t pass up on an exciting night just because of some nerves.
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Who doesn’t love to get dressed up? Aside from maybe your cousin’s wedding or a Sweet 16, when was the last time you got all dressed up in a flowing gown or tux? There’s no shame in admitting that a formal event is always fun to get ready for!
For young adults, life is full of little stressors and obstacles. If you or someone you know is looking to find their path on the way to success while having a learning or emotional disability, Debra Solomon of Spectrum Strategies offers group and individual coaching services.
