You’ve seen her on the Netflix docuseries “Cheer” and have likely followed her journey from Top Gun OO to winning at Grand National Title with Navarro College. Gabi Butler has been a staple in the cheer world for many years and has captured the hearts of fans around the globe, not only for her talent, but for how she carries herself off the mat. A true role model and ambassador for the sport, Gabi graced the cover of Inside Cheerleading in February 2020 and shared some of the wisdom she has gained and lessons she has learned about overcoming adversity, trying new things, and dealing with negativity.
Here are 5 pieces of advice from Gabi!
On overcoming adversity…
No matter how hard the challenges are, you can always overcome anything, if you keep your focus and put in the work. I have been through several injuries, but always fought my way back. It’s the best feeling in the world to overcome an adversity in your life!
On trying new things…
Many people can be negative when you take a chance on new things, but the things I have been able to experience and achieve have taught me amazing lessons. Never listen to what strangers have to say when they are being negative on something you are trying to do. The experience you gain, even if you fail, is what helps you to become the strong person you want to be. Keep your family close, because they always have your best interests at heart.
On managing social media and negative comments…
Simple: Ignore the negative. Some people in today’s world may be lonely or unhappy with their own lives, so they look to tear others down to make themselves feel better. You cannot and must not listen to these people. They will crush your happiness. If someone is being rude, I simply ignore them and keep it moving.
Also remember that social media doesn’t define who you are, your accomplishments do. No one can take away the work you have put in, and no one knows you better than yourself. I have always tried to stay positive and share that positivity with the world. Be the light in the world that you want to see!
To her younger self…
Enjoy the moments, because they fly by… While I am still cheering, I know it won’t last forever, and these are some of my last years. It went by in the blink of an eye, so don’t put so much pressure on yourself. Just keep working hard, and enjoy the journey and the triumphant moments!
To cheerleaders fighting to reach the next level…
Practice, practice, practice. Repetition is the most important thing to developing consistency in any athletic sport. Sometimes you have to fail so that you can succeed. Never give up, and always put in the work. There are no short cuts. The work is hard, but it is what builds you into the athlete you want to be.
The February 2020 issue of Inside Cheerleading featuring Gabi Butler is available for purchase on ShopInsideNation.com!
See Gabi Butler and the cast from CHEER this summer on the 2022 CHEER LIVE TOUR! Tickets available at CheerTourOfficial.com or LiveNation.com.
Subscribe to Inside Cheerleading magazine at www.shopinsidenation.com