I don't think she needs to make any drastic lifestyle changes like moving away from home. She got to the top before living at home, so there's no reason she can't do it again. Moving out isn't going to make her skating more mature; better choreography will. Even with her programs this year, had she been clean she would have medalled at Nationals and likely made the World team. What she loses in commute time she might make up for in the comfort and security of living with her family.
Mirai has alluded to the fact that her family has extremely high expectations when it comes to her performances, so living at home may bring so much pressure that it more than outweighs 'comfort and security'.
Mirai's practices at Nationals were perfect and skated with emotion. But when it came time for the performance, all the energy and emotion was gone and she skated like a robot. Mirai CAN do it, but she just doesn't do it when it counts.
Mirai has alluded to the fact that her family has extremely high expectations when it comes to her performances, so living at home may bring so much pressure that it more than outweighs 'comfort and security'.
I witnessed that pressure at Nationals in 2009. Her family did place extreme high expectations. Her mom paid for additional ice time 2or 3 times a DAY!! I could see the frustration on Mirai's face at practice sessions where her mom was discussing the practice with Mirai and at that time her coach Charlene Wong. She cried at almost every session I witnessed.
I witnessed that pressure at Nationals in 2009. Her family did place extreme high expectations. Her mom paid for additional ice time 2or 3 times a DAY!! I could see the frustration on Mirai's face at practice sessions where her mom was discussing the practice with Mirai and at that time her coach Charlene Wong. She cried at almost every session I witnessed.
This is a situation that has ended with a promising skater giving it up altogether. Ann Patrice McDonough had a parent who was so strict and demanding of her that AP became more and more unhappy and finally quit. When I see Mirai's expressionless performances I am reminded of AP.
Sometimes parents become too involved in their children's training to the point where they become a demotivator. Yes, parents are paying for the training, but it's better to be supportive of the child's efforts instead of being overcritical of the results.
If she's unhappy skating, she should do something else. Move up or move on!