Importance Of Stereotypes In My Life

“Mom, I am so glad you didn’t have any other kids because I like getting everything I want,” I said to my mom when I was about 7 years old. In this moment, my mom and I both realized that there needed to be a change in how we considered my childhood outcome. My family taught me to be the best person I can be, and how much I need to show I care to the people I am surrounded by. They always told me to be selfless and patient, and being an only child held me to a lot of stereotypes that I did not possess. Only children are seen by others as selfish, spoiled, and privileged, but my family knew that would not be the case with me. Being surrounded by such an influential family has prepared me for many occasions in my future like not only volleyball, but also all aspects of life.

With all of the coaches I have had, the one to surpass them all was my high school coach, and she always told me, “It’s not about you; it’s about your teammates.” This statement really hit me when I needed it the most. She was trying to get me to realize whether I was playing or not, I was still contributing. That gave me a different outlook on life as well as volleyball. That season taught me how to be patient and selfless. I wasn’t as concerned with me playing all the time as I was about getting better as an individual and teammate. I learned that you don’t only get stronger as a player, but grow as a team when you do what’s best for others. The importance is not just about me and my role, but about being selfless towards your team. Looking back at the time my mom and I were talking really makes me appreciative of the family that I have. The view of life I developed prepared me for so many opportunities, and I know that I will think of others before