As a native New Yorker, I was spoiled in my younger years. I had access to performances by some of the greatest dance companies and performers in the world. New York City Ballet has always held a special place in my heart and Deanna McBrearty is a dancer whose career I watched closely.

When a dancer you admire crosses your path in many ways – it feels like you know them. I got to watch Deanna not only in performances but also in the comfort of my living room via The New York City Ballet workout tapes and in Suki Shorer’s book on Balanchine technique.

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of connecting with her to chat about her new book Start with This and the many lessons she learned through her journey in dance. Start with This is part memoir, part field guide and will give you tons of “ah-ha” moments, whether you’re aspiring to dance professionally or you’re already in it. Her book will make you feel less alone (dancers have so many common experiences) and can support you in looking at things in a more positive light.

Check out my interview with Deanna here: 

In our chat Deanna shares so much wisdom – the kind that can only be found in a long career with a big company. Check out this interview, the advice is priceless.

You’ll find out how injury can actually help you get ahead and what is really necessary from the perspective of strategy and mindset to move you forward in dance.

Like most great dance stories, Deanna’s had ups and downs that shaped her into the artist and person she became. Are you ready for some inspiration? Check out the interview!

If you’d like to learn more about Deanna, visit her website. To purchase her book – click here!

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You likely see yourself retiring sometime in your 30’s or after you’ve performed all the principal roles you’ve ever desired. However, this career is unpredictable and things may not go as planned.

So, I want to call your attention to Shelby Elstree’s latest post on her blog Tutu’s and Tea (if you haven’t read it, go check it out) where she talk’s about her choice to retire at 25.

The maturity and wisdom in her decision making demonstrates, all over again, why she has been such an inspiration for me at The Whole Dancer.

Shelby is a Whole Dancer.

When you think about the end of your own career, consider Shelby’s thoughts…”My dreams for retirement were to finish dancing in a time and place where I felt confident about my career, proud of my body (not injured or broken or overworked), and in control of my mind and my decision.”

Such a beautiful goal.

Honor the ending. (The following was adapted from Melody Beattie’s book Journey to the Heart)

“There were times I felt exhilarated and sure I was on track. Other days I felt lost. Confused. I’d fall into bed at night certain this whole journey was a mistake and a waste.

But I’d wake up in the morning, something would happen, and I’d see how I’d been guided all along.

Cherish the moments, all of them, even the ups and downs. Cherish the places you’ve visited, the people you’ve seen. Say good – bye to those whose journeys have called them someplace else.

Know you can always call them back by thinking loving thoughts. Know all those you love will be there for you when you need them most. Honor the lessons you’ve learned, and the people who helped you learn them. Honor the journey your soul mapped out for you.

Trust all the places you’ve been. Make a scrapbook in your heart to help you remember.

Look back for a moment. Reflect in peace. Then let this journey draw to a close. All parts of the journey are sacred and holy. You’ve learned that by now. Take time to honor this ending – though it’s never really the end. Go to sleep tonight. When you wake up tomorrow a new adventure will begin.“

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