The Challenges of Volunteering in the Concession Stand as a Softball Mom

8/7/20242 min read

Introduction: Softball Mom Duties

Hello friends! Sam here, taking over the blog once again! Today, I wanted to express my thoughts on being a softball mom and having to 'volunteer' in the concession stand. So, here we go!

A Glimpse into My Anxiety

First off, as many of you may or may not know, I have social anxiety and a pretty severe case of it. (I guess it could be worse actually). So, the thought of being in the concession stand scares the crap out of me. The moment the list comes out on the date and time we have to work in the stand, that’s all I obsess over. My anxiety and OCD take effect to the max. If you couldn't tell, I'm not a fan of it whatsoever.

Facing My Fears

For the past few years, I have had to work during our busiest times at the concession stand. The pressure to handle the influx of customers, making sure everyone gets their order promptly, and managing the financial transactions - it all becomes quite overwhelming. But each year, despite my fears and social anxiety, I find myself there, donning the apron, and giving my best to support the team and the other parents.

Finding Support in the Community

What I have learned from these experiences is invaluable. The solidarity among the parents, the encouraging smiles from other moms who understand the anxiety, and the occasional kind word from a customer make a huge difference. This community spirit often helps alleviate some of the stress and makes the daunting task of working in the concession stand more bearable.

Conclusion: The Rewards of Volunteering

While I wouldn’t say I have conquered my social anxiety or that I look forward to my shifts at the concession stand, I have found a way to navigate through it. Volunteering in this capacity has taught me resilience, the importance of community support, and has given me a deeper appreciation for all the efforts that go into supporting our kids' activities. To all the parents out there with social anxiety, you're not alone, and your contributions do not go unnoticed. Until next time, stay strong and take comfort in knowing that what we do truly matters.