It's the first big event of the school year. There's a lot to prepare for. Expectations are high. This could set the tone for the rest of the year. We're not talking about the first day of school, or your first big test. That's right…..we're talking about Homecoming. With the pressure to "fit in" and have fun, the Homecoming dance and everything that goes with it can cause stress and anxiety.
First of all…………take a deep breath. Remember that this is only one night and not everything HAS to be perfect. Think about a time in your life when you really stressed about something before it happened. After it was over was it really worth all that stress and anxiety? Probably not.
The first step is to decide if you want to go with a date or if you want to go solo. Talk to your friends and make some plans. If you decide that you don't want to go, that's ok too. Find something else to do that weekend. Get together with some friends and go to a movie or order a pizza. Don't beat yourself up if you don't have a date. The world will NOT end if you don't go to homecoming this year!
If you decide to go, make a list of the things you need to do. Talk to your parents about shopping for something to wear. Understand your budget and remember that this is one night out of your life. Next, decide on a casual restaurant or determine who your group would be willing to host a dinner at their house. Finally, decide what to do after the dance. If your curfew allows it, hang out at someone's house or invite friends over to yours.
Then, go to the dance and have fun! Don't stress about dancing, honestly everyone is a little self-conscious about how they dance. Some people are just better about looking confident while doing it.
Whatever you choose to do about Homecoming or any significant school events, make good choices and be safe!
