January was for letting loose and putting off commitments. Are you ready for more now? February is an excellent time to start projecting and planning the year ahead. As a professional for 15 years, I realized that some years of my career were empty and unfulfilling because I let everything happen to me instead of being the leader of my career and life. I finally got a job as a professional and thought I had to lay low to fit in. For many years I felt lucky to be here, and I am ok with what I get and where life takes me. I was comfortable but not happy. Maybe you resonate with my younger self a little. Perhaps you are more confident than I was. Either way, you need to ask yourself some questions for clarity. Are you happy with where you are? Do you feel challenged enough? Where do you see yourself 2 and 5 years from now?
That's why I want to share with you some strategies for consistent growth and motivation as a professional dancer. Our career is too short to wait around for that opportunity, for the right choreographer, or for that technique to come. We need to project outward much more to be seen and trusted as dancers. As a ballet dancer, it can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind of rehearsals, performances, and classes. However, setting goals, finding motivation, and striving for growth as an artist is essential for personal and professional development. Here are 7 key ingredients to help you achieve your goals and grow as an artist.
Set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) Goals: Setting SMART goals will help you stay focused and motivated. Write down your goals and make sure they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and have a deadline. This will help you stay on track and see progress.
Stay Inspired: Inspiration can come from many sources, including watching performances, reading about other artists, or taking a class in a different style of dance. Surround yourself with things that inspire you, and keep your passion for dance alive.
Learn from Feedback: Feedback can be difficult to hear, but it is an essential tool for growth as an artist. Take criticism constructively, and use it to identify areas for improvement.
Practice Consistently: Consistent practice is the key to growth as an artist. Make time each day to work on your technique, review your repertoire, and develop new skills.
Collaborate with Others: Collaborating with other dancers, choreographers, and artists can help you grow and develop new skills. So essential to take advantage of opportunities to work with others and learn from their experiences.
Take Care of Your Body and Mind: Care for yourself is essential for sustainable growth as dancers. This includes getting enough rest, eating well, and recharging the mind. Prioritizing your body and mind will help you perform at your best, prevent injury, and keep your mind sharp.
Celebrate Your Achievements: Celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, will help you stay motivated and focused. Take time to reflect on your progress, and reward yourself for your hard work and dedication.
I wish I had known this sooner and acted on it. But perfect excuses and life situations always got in my way. The key is recognizing what's holding us back from where we want to be. If you truly love this art form and the reason you dance gives you happiness, it means you have the gasoline in your tank. You need to start the engine and drive in the right direction. You won't regret it. And I'm here to help you on your journey. Feel free to reach out.
In conclusion, setting goals, finding motivation, and striving for growth as an artist is essential for personal and professional development. By staying inspired, learning from feedback, practicing consistently, collaborating with others, taking care of your body, and celebrating your achievements, you will be able to reach new heights as a ballet dancer.
Much love,
Naira