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How am I supposed to quit?

I'm a level 8 gymnast, and I've been asking my parents if I can quit for almost 3 years. but, my coach keeps telling my mom to keep me in gymnastics until I'm about 15-16 because she thinks that it's too early for me to make my decision. I've tried talking to them both about my feelings about the sport, I even wrote a really long paragraph backed up with a bunch of details as to why I should quit, but nothing works. For me, its just not fun anymore and I hate going to practice. And like I said earlier, I've been asking to quit for 3 years straight, but I don't really think they care. They both say that I'd be wasting my talent, but no matter how many times I tell them that talent doesn't matter to me anymore, they keep pushing me and trying to guilt trip me into staying. My mom told me that she'd let me quit if I found another sport I can do, and I've told her that I want to do dance or soccer, but she just ignores my texts when I send her websites, or she makes up excuses when I show her in person. I just don't know what to do because I've grown to despise this sport, so what should I do?

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Christie’s Answer

This is a tough situation and I feel for you, Liliana. Is there anything you can do to make gymnastics fun again? For example, can you speak to your coach about managing or coaching or mentoring others, or perhaps working in the back office to gain some business skills? If nothing works and you cannot regain your love for it, then you will have to force the issue to a discussion with your parents. They clearly do not want you to quit so want to avoid having the conversation with you. If you speak calmly and with determination, and invite them to share their feedback, then this is a good recipe for a healthy conversation. Try to remain calm and don't get upset. It may help you to take your initial few paragraphs that you wrote and create a little presentation (in PowerPoint). You can make it fun with photos and then have some specific others sports you want to try at the end. Good luck!
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Chris’s Answer

I would ask your parents on the end game for continuing gymnastics. Is it getting into college, a good persistence college essay or going to Olympics? Very few can win college
scholarships and even less go to Olympics
FYI, I did gymnastics for 8 years and quit at 16. I communicated that it was about focusing on academics to get into a good College/ University.
I would focus on an end goal Language parents would understand.
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Steward "Tony"’s Answer

Looks like you excelled to the point that you feel that everyone has too much skin in the game due to your efforts. Their intensions are honorable but if you need to stop, just stop. Before you do that, look around. Look for the kids that admire you, want to be like you, look at the amazement in their eyes when they watch you. Think about the investment coaches, as well as your parents have given to get you to this point. The respect at such a young age as a gymnist. recognized as a quality athlete at this part of your schooling.

Try adding another sport and cutting back a little on gymnastics to give you time to adapt. This way you'll be a champ on one side while being a scrub on the other side. That is until you up your game to the status you currently hold in gymnastics. Those who admire you will also not be let down by your sudden move. To be a champion is enduring pain, discomfort and many other likes as well as dislikes.

Thats what follows you at this youthful age. Honor, commitment & loyalty will now be put to the test. It's your call but think it through because if it was just you, easy peezy. There are more things to consider. play smart. Good Luck Kid!
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