The lessons we learned as dancers were never just applicable to the current move we were (attempting) to master. All these important things we learned growing up in the dancing world could almost always be applied directly to life. As a dancer, you do not just gain skills in the art of ballet, jazz, modern, or any other style you may practice. You gain lessons in life.
1. Good posture is a must.
2. Messy hair will get you nowhere.
It's magic what a few pins and hairspray can do.
3. Yawning is rude.
Yawning in the middle of your teacher's lesson was a bad idea and you knew it from the moment you opened your mouth. It's really easy to blame it on being tired (trust me, I've done it). Stop that! Get some sleep and look alive.
4. A little lipstick and blush go a long way.
Even on your worst day.
5. Be on time.
The curtain waits for no one.
6. If you can't be on time, bring Starbucks.
Your teacher is going to be mad, but handing her a tall mocha with whip (because of course, you know her drink) might make explaining how you were 30 minutes late, a little easier.
7. Do your laundry regularly.
Yes, we can smell your leotard that you haven't washed in two weeks.
No, it's not okay.
8. Be humble.
Thanks for the sage advice, Nick.
So you got the part you wanted, good for you. Now prove that you deserved it by showing up, working hard and not acting like you own the place.
9. Fake it till you make it.
OK so you don't remember the combination, but that doesn't ever mean stop dancing. You keep going. You slap a smile on and you work it, because no one is going to stop the music for you.
10. Drink Lots of Water.
There is no time to pass out from dehydration.
11. It's OK to fall.
At least you tried that switch leap.
12. Just make sure you always stand back up
13. Glitter can make anything better.
In moderation.
14. If you're uncomfortable, you're doing it right.
Nothing about dance should ever be comfortable. That goes with life as well. If you're comfortable you're not trying new things or pushing yourself towards your goals.
15. Whining is for 2-year-olds.
So you didn't get the part or place you wanted. Simply put, get over it! Such is life and trust me, you would much rather have earned your place than have been given it.
16. Feed your body right.
Veggies, fruits and protein are going to keep you going much longer than that cold slice of pizza you grabbed from your refrigerator on the way out .
17. Never count on luck.
You won't land that triple pirouette by just wishing for it. You have to practice.
18. Rehearsal exists for a reason
No such thing as a perfect first try. Rehearsal exists so you can make mistakes. So when Show comes around, the real fun can begin.
19. Listen more
Your teachers have important things to say. Don't miss it because you were goofing off with your friends in the back (Not that I ever did that).
20. Love what you do.
In the end, it's up to you to be where you are. My teachers always told us that it was our choice to be there, dancing. We could leave anytime. So love the dance and relish each step across the floor.
Dedicated to the lovely dancers and teachers of the British Dancing Academy.
