I daydream and procrastinate. I have relationship issues and very high expectations.
I live in a bad neighborhood. I worry about our neighbors yelling in the middle of the night. I worry about my mom's health. I wish I could go to a better school. I am 13 and want to be an athlete.
What sports are you interested in? I really enjoy skate boarding and running.  How about you? I used to skateboard when I was younger, but now I play basketball.  Are you on the track team in school?  That's a great way to train to be an athlete.   I am not on the track team at school.  Our neighborhood is not so great, so my mom always wants me home right after school.  NO extra stuff for me.... but my older brother sometimes takes me to a skate park across town.  Is it difficult to play a team sport and not let people down? Oh, that's too bad.  I do wish you did live in a nicer neighborhood.  Then you would feel more comfortable playing outdoors and having fun.  You wouldn't have to go across town just to skate.  And to answer your question, it is difficult to play a team sport and not let others down.  I'm a perfectionist so I'm very hard on myself. I don't know if I am a perfectionist.  I think I am just scared others will dislike me for my ability or lack there of I get it.  It's normal to be afraid that others won't like you.  As a matter of fact, I've lost many friends because I pushed them too hard to be competitive.  They would join sports teams with me, and I'd criticize them if they did not win.  I guess we all have issues. Oh my.  Yes, I am sorry that your friends didn't enjoy the pressure.  I am sure you still love them, you are just competitive and like to win. You're right.  As a matter of fact, you just gave me an idea.  I'll reach out to my friends and see if I can make things up to them.  Maybe they can teach me to be a better friend.   I think that would be a great idea.  Go slow, I know how people can be hesitant. I'll follow your advice.  Now tell me, how's your mom doing?  I know that living in a bad neighborhood has affected her mental health.   She is ok... She works a lot, but she makes sure she is home for me most evenings.  I know she will appreciate you asking about her.