[Help Thread] How do i convince my parents so i can go to comps

[tnk351]

They say it's a waste of money and time, and you don't get anything if you win.

 

[2180161]

They say it's a waste of money and time, and you don't get anything if you win.

I mean they aren't wrong. Doesn't mean you shouldn't go and have fun. Unless of course you don't like fun and meeting new people. Then don't go. Although they sometimes aren't fun. So don't go. But do go. But don't.

 

[Duncan Bannon]

As ^ said, they arn’t wrong. However comps are a place to go and have loads of fun and have a chance to meet some potential new friends.

 

[xyzzy]

They say it's a waste of money and time, and you don't get anything if you win.

I've won four puzzles out of the comps I've attended though. (Also bragging rights for having briefly held a national record, lol.)

But yeah, it's honestly not really worth it if you're in it to win something, because (i) the prizes are often kind of meh unless it's a very big comp and (ii) you probably won't win anyway. It's mostly an opportunity to socialise rather than to compete; how often do you see other cubers in real life?

If the reason your parents don't want you to attend a competition is because they think cubing is a worthless hobby, then you're Somewhat Screwed, because nothing you say will convince them that letting you meet other people with the same stupid hobby is a good idea. You could try to argue that hobbies are things everyone should have and they shouldn't be judged for that, but good luck arguing with parents.

 

[Tabe]

What you need to do is change their perception of what a "competition" is. Tell them that the main purpose is to gather, socialize, and test yourself, not merely "compete" against others. Tell them it's a very low cost way to provide you with a full day of fun and socializing with other people your age.

 

[tnk351]

Thank you everyone!

 

[teboecubes]

What you need to do is change their perception of what a "competition" is. Tell them that the main purpose is to gather, socialize, and test yourself, not merely "compete" against others. Tell them it's a very low cost way to provide you with a full day of fun and socializing with other people your age.

IMO it’s more of a “convention” than a “competition.”

 

[Tabe]

IMO it’s more of a “convention” than a “competition.”

There ya go. I couldn't think of the word I wanted to use. That's perfect.

 

[greentgoatgal]

Would they be driving you?

 

[kirtpro]

You can show them that you have a real interest in the hobby. Tell them you enjoy it and want to participate in a community with other like-minded peers.