Every day I'm grateful to have grown up dancing. If I didn't, I wouldn't have learned all the important lessons it taught me. I learned...
1. To Never Give Up
I used to think my dance teacher was the biggest bullsh*t artist, telling me that I would be able to do consecutive turns on a straight standing leg one day, with pointed feet, and spotting my head. She used to tell me, "Don't give up. You can do this," but I was reluctant to believe her. I considered quitting on multiple occasions, but I didn't! In time, I began to see improvement in myself, and realized if I had given up, I would've never felt the sense of accomplishment when I finally did hit those pirouettes!
2. Dedication
As a company member at my studio, we put in double, maybe even triple the amount of hours as a regular student. We also have non-itemized (in other words, you can't leave when you're not dancing) weekend rehearsal schedules, starting at noon and ending at approximately 6 p.m. And, on top of that, there are costume costs, production fees, other performance opportunities, etc. Basically, it's "goodbye social life," but if you're truly dedicated to something, that's often what it takes!
3. Teamwork
Staging a big piece is nearly impossible if not everyone is there! And, if you're the person that misses a rehearsal because it's your friend's birthday party or you're just "too tired," you're letting the entire group down. You're not always going to be a soloist or have a lead role, but being a part of the corps isn't any less important. In fact, they're often the ones who bring it all together. You have to be willing to work with others to stay on the music, dance in unison, and often push through the most difficult parts of a ballet. It's an indescribably good feeling, but when something beautiful comes together, you'll know.
4. It's OK To Ask For Help
When I was a kid, I would never ask for help. I was stubborn and wanted to prove that I could do things by myself! But, when my dance schedule got amped up, and I started taking more challenging classes, I could feel myself getting overwhelmed. I was so frustrated with myself, even to the point that I would cry. I was afraid to admit that I needed help, but when I finally did come around to my dance teacher, I realized she respected me more for asking for help. Since then, I haven't been afraid to admit when I need help with something.
5. Self-Confidence
By far, the most important thing I've learned from dance is self-confidence! Not every dancer is born with perfect turnout or extreme flexibility. Believe me, I wasn't gifted with either of those things. But, that doesn't matter! What matters is getting out on the floor and trying! Sure, you may go out and fall on your butt, but don't feel bad about it. Keep smiling, and feel good about the fact that you gave it your all, no matter the outcome. It's not going to matter who believes in you, if you don't believe in you!
I've learned countless other lessons from dance, but I think these are the five most important. They are lessons that not only can be applied in dance, but also applied in life. And, they are lessons I will carry with me, my entire life!
