Caught Between Multiple Hobbies: Finding Balance with Roller Derby, Cheerleading, and Beyond

When you’re dedicated to your hobbies, it can feel like your life is packed with diverse activities. From skate boarding on Mondays, guiding dance units on Tuesdays, roller blading on Fridays, participating in archery on Saturdays, to cheerleading on Sunday, it all adds up. Is that too much? While the answer may vary from one individual to another, this article explores the challenges and rewards of juggling multiple hobbies, with a special focus on roller derby and cheerleading.

The Boilerplate Self

I run on Mondays, lead two guiding units on Tuesdays, dance on Thursdays, rollerblade on Fridays, do archery on Saturdays, and cheerlead on Sundays. It might sound overwhelming, and it can be. However, embracing a multitude of interests is part of the joy of a fulfilling life. Each activity might benefit from dedicated practices, club meetups, and extracurricular commitments. For roller derby, for instance, practices can range from 2 to 4 days per week, further layered by requirements for volunteering, committee work, and events management. When you roll into a derby league, you're not just a participant; you're part of a community, all requiring different levels of judgment, teamwork, and time investment.

Roller Derby: The Complete Package

Joining roller derby can be a life-changing experience. In an activity as all-encompassing as derby, you’re embarking on not just a physical feat but a community journey. The decision to join a derby league involves more than just committing to the sport; you’re taking on additional responsibilities such as volunteering, setting up for events, and selling tickets. These tasks might require a bit of a time investment, but they’re often rewarded with the feeling of camaraderie and belonging. The key is to balance these commitments with your personal needs and goals.

The roller derby community is dynamic and inclusive, and joining it often involves attending boot camps or tryouts. These events not only give you a taste of what the sport entails but also provide valuable information about attendance requirements, insurance, and membership benefits. Exploring a new hobby like this can indeed be demanding, but with the right approach, time management, and support, it can be incredibly rewarding.

Cheerleading: The Spotlight and Beyond

Cheerleading, like roller derby, is a multi-faceted activity requiring skill, precision, and a certain level of awareness. While cheerleading typically doesn’t involve as many physical commitments per week as roller derby, it’s still a high-energy and time-intensive pursuit. Adaptation to this kind of activity can be challenging, especially if you're already balancing other responsibilities. Enjoying the spotlight and the excitement of cheering in a crowd involves not just the performance itself but the training, rehearsals, and team dynamics that come with it.

Both roller derby and cheerleading can be demanding, but for me, these activities have been some of the best decisions of my life. They have taught me to be adaptable, resilient, and to seek out personal growth through diverse experiences. While the current injury has put a pause on active participation, I remain committed to the sport and the community it fosters.

Time Management and Prioritization

Is there a point where multiple hobbies become too much? Absolutely. The secret to a balanced life is finding a way to prioritize, delegate, and manage your time effectively. Consider these tips for managing multiple hobbies:

Be Realistic: Assess your current commitments and ensure they align with your priorities and schedule. Set Boundaries: Clearly define when and where you can engage with each hobby, promoting clear timeframes and expectations. Delegate: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or support when needed, especially when volunteer or committee roles are involved. Stay Flexible: Life can be unpredictable, and being flexible with your schedule will help you navigate unexpected challenges.

Conclusion: Embracing the Joy of Diversity

While it might seem daunting to juggle so many activities, the richness of a varied life can be profoundly fulfilling. Roller derby, cheerleading, and other hobbies can challenge you, grow you, and bring immense joy. Whether your path involves sports, arts, or community service, the key is to find what works for you and to prioritize self-care. Embrace the journey, and you’ll find that each activity enriches your life in unique and meaningful ways.