A cheerleader recently wrote to me, explaining that she was just appointed captain of her cheerleading squad.  She asked me how she could get her squad to do what she told them to do. 

I thought her way of phrasing her question was – well, interesting. I realize that embedded in her question is a good bit of anxiety.  To be a captain is an honor and a big responsibility and it is natural for a new captain to confuse leadership with being a boss.  

Of course, being a good leader is more about listening than telling and the listening that is required is respectful, attentive, and appreciative listening.  People need to feel heard and understood; when they experience this, they will respond positively. 

I encouraged this young cheerleader to think about all the qualities she would like to see in a captain if she were under that person’s leadership.  I asked her to write these qualities down and then ask herself which ones she possessed and which ones she needed to strengthen or develop. 

What qualities do you think a captain should have?  I’d love to hear from you!

If you are experiencing tension that is interfering with your cheerleading performance, try this easy technique: 

1. Close your eyes and exhale slowly 3 to 5 times.
2. Now make a fist and imagine that all of the tension and worry you feel is being directed into that fist.
3. Really “see” and feel yourself putting all the tension and worry into your fist.
4. Now, count to 3 and open your fist, releasing all the tension into the air. 

When you are worried or tense, it can seem overwhelming. By funneling all your worry into your fist, you will feel freer and less encumbered.  Open your fist quickly to release the tension. 

This is quick and easy and you can do it anywhere!