1. Practice makes perfect.
The only way to see results and achieve success is to work hard. This applies to everything in life— dance, school, and more. You won’t see results if you don’t put in the necessary effort. Plus, there’s nothing more rewarding than working really hard and then looking back on all the progress you’ve made!
2. ...but, it's okay to make mistakes! No one is actually perfect.
It’s sometimes hard to come to terms with the fact that no one is perfect. I know that I’m a perfectionist and always feel the pressure to do better, be better, to be the best. Dance helps you learn that while you may strive for perfection, mistakes are inevitable. Learning to accept you won’t always be the best in the room or that you’re going to mess up every once in a while is a great thing.
3. Learn how to take constructive criticism.
Similar to realizing no one is perfect, realizing that criticism isn’t always a bad thing can be very difficult! It’s easy to get discouraged when you hear people telling you that you did something wrong; however, the advice they’re giving you comes from a place of love. Obviously not all criticism is constructive or helpful, but don’t get angry when someone is just trying to help you improve yourself and become the best version of yourself!
4. Smile, smile, smile!
As they say in Annie, “you’re never fully dressed without a smile.” When you’re on stage performing, a smile completely transforms your performance. When not on stage, a smile can still do a lot. Studies have shown simply smiling can help make you feel happier and it also makes people more apt to be drawn to you!
5. Stand tall.
Posture is a very integral part of dance. If you don’t have good posture—back straight, shoulders back—your entire body is thrown off balance and out of whack. Good posture should follow you off the stage, too. Not only does good posture make you seem more confident and in control, it also helps keep your body in perfect condition.
6. Always try to present yourself well.
Presentation is everything—on and off stage. First impressions stick with people, so always try to put your best foot forward and show people just how awesome you really are. By presenting yourself well to those around you, you’re showing them you should be taken seriously and it lets them know exactly what you have to offer.
7. Be confident.
Confidence is key, and everyone has reasons to be confident. You have a lot to offer, and learning to believe in yourself will help you stand out from the crowd. People notice and admire confidence!
8. Keep a positive attitude.
Things can be difficult sometimes and it’s easy to slip into a negative funk. If you’re negative too often, though, it starts to push people away. No one wants to deal with the person who keeps saying “no” or has a bad attitude while in dance class, and no one wants to hang out with someone who’s just going to bring the mood down. My dance teacher always told us that we weren’t allowed to say, “I can’t.” Instead, we were told to say, “I’m not capable at this moment, but I will be able to.” Perspective is everything, so try to keep a positive spin.
9. Don't be afraid to try new things.
Step outside your comfort zone! Try that crazy new dance move that you think looks awesome (even if you’re worried you will look silly). Embrace challenges! Seek adventure! Live life to its fullest! Like I said before, perspective is everything. You can do anything; don’t be afraid to give it a try.
10. You were made to shine!
You are fabulous. As my dance instructor always said, “We are dancers… POW!” She encouraged us to find confidence and beauty within ourselves. Each person is special, beautiful, and has so much to offer. Never forget just how incredible you are, and never let anyone try to dull your sparkle!
