Dealing with casting in dance can be a challenge…

We’ve all been there. The cast sheet goes up and you walk over feeling hopeful. Then, you read the list and are totally disappointed with your roles.

At just about every level, dancers experience the doubt and insecurity that comes with casting decisions by artistic staff. Dealing with this can be difficult.

As you move along as a dancer from pre-professional training to (sometimes) college to company life, casting sheets can be a big source of anxiety.

All too often, we begin to quantify our value based on what roles are bestowed upon us.

Managing casting, friendships, and comparison.

In college, my best friend Alice was consistently cast in better roles than me. Beyond being close friends, we were the same height with similar body shapes. It got to a point where I expected that outcome and reinforced the story in my head: “She’s just better than me, there’s really nothing I can do about it.”

When we started auditioning for companies, I began to realize that I was basing my thoughts about myself on the opinions of one group of people: my college professors. What I failed to notice is that the artistic staff at every company Alice and I auditioned for assessed our abilities in totally different ways.

When they made cuts throughout auditions, we were rarely kept for the same length of time. Sometimes she made it to the end, and sometimes I did. We each got different offers. I finally realized that while we were the same height with similar body types, we were different people and had different strengths.

Feel empowered even when you’re unhappy with your roles.

Even if you work to cultivate a healthy perspective shift when it comes to your strengths, you may still face casting disappointment. That’s when it’s important to take your power back and boost your confidence. 

Boost confidence before the cast list goes up.

Dancers tend to see what’s wrong. For many years, or even decades, you’ve been training your brain to use the mirror as a tool to tell you what you need to fix. Rarely does a dancer look in the mirror with joy and admiration for what they’re capable of.

That’s a great place to start…

The next time you’re in class or rehearsal, rather than constantly nitpicking, make it your goal to pick out the things you’re doing well. Where’s the beauty in your movement? What is unique about you?

Recently, a client was telling me that she just didn’t have anything that might draw someone’s eye. When we discussed it further, she was able to connect with the fact that she is a unique person and has a unique joy for dance that she can communicate through her movement. 

Connecting with your joy for dance is what gives you that intangible quality that is enjoyable to watch. 

Remember that every role, no matter how small, is an opportunity to grow.

It sounds cheesy, but it’s true. Are you playing the maid in the Nutcracker? Even that small part can have a story. How will you convey that story to the audience? How can you make this character role your own? Is there a way to hone some acting skills?

Use this as an opportunity to start a discussion.

If you’re disappointed with the casting decisions, you can use this as an opportunity to start a discussion on your growth. Set up a meeting with someone on the artistic staff who you trust and know has your best interest at heart.

Ask them if there’s something more you could or should be doing to improve. Is there a way they’d like to see you develop technically or artistically that would lead to bigger roles or more responsibility? 

Having these talks can be scary, but they can also bring to light things you would have otherwise stayed in the dark about. It also might lead to more opportunities. Consider asking to understudy something you weren’t originally cast to understudy.

Reassess the energy you bring to the studio.

Are you too comfortable in your current environment? Are you relying too heavily on your talent or facility and not taking things to the next level on your own? Would you benefit from setting more goals around your dancing?

Remember that you can’t control the roles and opportunities you’re given, but you can control the energy you bring with you. Casting may be out of your hands, but the work you put in is very much up to you. Start approaching your corrections with more fervor and focus, and see if things shift.

Create supportive routines to facilitate your best dancing.

Making adjustments to your approach to food or cross-training could have a huge positive impact. These adjustments are not about changing how you look, but rather, they’re about increasing your confidence so you dance more freely.

Some food swaps and cross-training switch-ups can make a big impact on how you perform. Have you started relying on too much sugar or caffeine for energy? Instead, put some attention on increasing the length and quality of your sleep. Incorporate lots of simple and complex carbs for consistent energy throughout the day.

If you’ve been doing the same cross-training for years, you might benefit from trying something new. Experiment with weight training or employ a trainer who works with dancers to see if there’s a weakness you haven’t addressed.

Taking better care of yourself will give you a better experience in your dancing regardless of casting. 

You might not be dancing at the best company for you.

If you’ve been plugging away at the same company for a few years and haven’t been getting the response you had hoped for or the roles you were promised, it might be time to move on. I’d encourage you to open up a conversation first, but then be willing to accept that maybe you haven’t found the right fit yet.

Be honest with yourself about the company environment you’re in. If they reward weight loss or constantly give you feedback on your body shape or size, it might be time to look elsewhere. Even if you are getting desired roles, it’s worth considering what sort of environment you’re in and how that impacts you. Roles should be determined based on your skill and hard work. 

Unhealthy extremes to fit the mold of a particular company is not a sustainable approach to a dance career. If you’re struggling to find a healthy approach to your career, or you’re unsure if you’ve found it, it may be time to seek help. Many dancers benefit from support in nutrition, body image, and even career mentorship to confidently determine when they’re at their healthiest. 

Check in with your mental well-being.

Has dance left you feeling drained? Have you been in the trainee or apprentice spot for a while and started wondering if you’ll ever move beyond it? Check your mental well-being.

If you’re constantly telling yourself you’re not good enough or that all the other dancers are so much better, it will feel nearly impossible to progress. Once your thoughts start to improve, I guarantee you’ll feel changes within yourself and your dancing. 

As I was able to connect with the fact that my friend Alice and I had different things to offer, it afforded me some freedom in my approach. I started my first company job believing I was meant to be there. 

Ultimately, you need to retrain your mind for confidence and expect success! Those shifts in mindset aren’t an overnight endeavor or a quick fix. It takes time, dedication, and support from someone who understands the industry specific challenges you’re faced with. 

Don’t forget, it all takes time.

Pursuing dance at the professional level is a process — and an arduous one at that. Every dancer develops at a different rate. Your friend might skyrocket to principal while you’re working away in the corps. It’s helpful to trust the timing of your life.

Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. You’ll learn so many lessons along the way as long as you’re open to them. If your love for dance is strong and you stay committed, you can reach your goals. And don’t forget: success is a concept you get to define. So, maybe define success as doing what you love. Perhaps you’ve already achieved that.

Looking for support?

If you’re feeling particularly challenged by your experiences with the cast sheet, and you know you’d benefit from support from someone who has been there, schedule a complimentary coaching consultation. CLICK HERE to book your free introductory consultation. This is the first step and the best way to determine if health, nutrition, and lifestyle coaching is a good fit for your needs.

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From the time you start taking dance seriously, the focus is honed in on technique. Your teachers help you to work out all the little technical details . The best teachers create an environment for healthy dedication and improvement.

However, a lot of dancers are criticized for not applying corrections quickly enough. The assumption might be that they’re lazy or not dedicated. Perhaps they lack focus or attention in class.  This post will delve into how to deal with criticism in dance.

The reality is, if a correction is not applied quickly, it may not be understood or prioritized, by the student, teacher, or both. For some dancers, anxiety gets in the way of mental focus in class. Still, other dancers are so hyper-focused on trying to pick up combinations that applying corrections becomes too much to handle.

As a dancer, you can be empowered by knowing that you are the keeper of your destiny. By taking care of your body, being open to feedback or corrections, and working hard every day you can get where you want to go. You can reach your goals.

It might take some additional focus on applying those things that you hear in class or staying present to remember the intricacies of each combination. If you want to really get ahead, consistently create additional personal benchmarks to make your improvements measurable.

This is where goal setting and accountability come in.

Most of us have been in a situation where it felt like a teacher just really didn’t like you for some reason. Those can be some of the most challenging, disheartening experiences.

Here’s a personal story, major criticism in dance…

When I was 15, I went away for my second summer program. I was put into the highest level, but worried it was a mistake. I don’t think I was ready for that at all, and apparently, neither did the former New York City Ballet *star* my level worked with most closely.

This former NYCB principal dancer (we’ll call her Ms. M) was one of the people I was most excited to work with. I never had any Balanchine training so I was looking forward to experiencing her perspective and learning some incredibly beautiful Balanchine choreography.

It became clear on day 1 that Ms. M was not impressed by me. She would often single me out and give lots and lots of corrections in a very mean, degrading way. I was not totally alone in this. Ms. M was harsh in general and called out a number of ladies in my class with lots of yelling.

Then, there were her favorites. The ones who could do no wrong. Were they working harder than me? Applying corrections more quickly? Simply better?

I cried to my mother on the phone every day that I had class with her (which was almost every day of that summer program).

Ms. M threatened to demote me to a lower level. I secretly wished she would, just so I wouldn’t have to take her classes anymore. In the beginning, I was determined to win her over. Tis’ the plight of the determined dancer I guess. I tried to work harder. Then, I tried to disappear. 

Honestly, that experience informed a lot of my future confidence and actions as a dancer.

When I think back on that experience the pain is still quite palpable, even though it was so long ago. When I revisit some of my dancing experiences after that summer, I see myself hiding. Doubting. Worrying.

This is where the importance of taking on responsibility for your own success comes in. You’ve got to assess yourself and work towards your goals, regardless of these sometimes negative, studio experiences. If you’re not sure how to deal with criticism in dance, you’re not alone.

Don’t let your dancing be defined or defeated by one person’s opinion. Here’s how…

Luckily, I’ve had lots of different teachers over the years and many supporters. I’m glad I only dealt with such a defeating experience for four weeks. If you’re dealing with a challenging experience on a more consistent basis, you may need to take bigger action. 

It might be in your best interest to seek new training or teachers in your area. If you plan to pursue dance professionally, this is going to make a huge difference in your levels of confidence and therefore chances for success.

In a temporarily challenging time, bring your attention back to positive training experiences. Who were the teachers who supported you? How did they make you feel? What did they say that helped you see your own potential? 

During my very challenging summer intensive experience, I wrote down the choreography to every variation we learned. There’s value to writing down choreography but what I wish I had done, was set some personal goals for myself. I would have been empowered to focus on the work instead of the fear.

Clear goals can provide an outlet to turn your attention inward. They can counteract feelings of failure and help you stay aware of your big picture, big goals, and ultimate dreams. Goals allow you to be in the driver’s seat. 

Are you a goal-setter? Do you have a vision for your goals? 

Check out these posts and videos for more: 

• The Power of a Clear Vision.
• Tools of Transformation.
• Reaching Body Goals

How to Deal with Criticism in Dance was originally published in October 2015

Edited for content and clarity July 2021 

Photos of Casey by Luis Pons

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Each day we go to the studio and stare at our reflection. Yes, the mirror is a tool blah blah blah, I know. In reality, we use it as a tool to see what’s wrong.

Then, we get corrections, which are constructive (or meant to be anyway) and take those on. Sometimes, once you’re in a company, you’re mostly left on your own. You’re expected to know what needs work and make it happen.

When faced with that challenge of personal evaluation, you might thrive. Or, you might start to wonder, “why aren’t they telling me anything?”. Then your mind starts to go crazy with the super negative, hyper – critical self talk.

This way of thinking can destroy your psyche and have a hugely negative impact on your dancing.

So how do you get around this struggle? Set goals. Refer to them daily.

Pick the categories that are most important to you and add a couple that you think will be good for your overall well – being. Examples include: technique, career, body – image, physical activity (outside of dance), relationships, inspiration.

Now, start to set SMART goals for your 3 – month, 6 – month, 1 – year, 3 – year vision. SMART is an acronym for goals that stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time bound.

Don’t let yourself be stifled by the idea that your goals should be “attainable” and “realistic”. As dancers we can be so aware of the flaws that we’re not always open to our full potential or possibility. Definitely dare to dream and be as objective as possible.

When it comes to career, you may want to ask a trusted teacher who you feel supported by, what they imagine is possible for you. However, they don’t have a crystal ball so do not take their opinion for fact.

Teachers and Artistic Staff have a somewhat narrow lens of what they’ve seen to work. Their opinions might be based in old standards and they might not consider your potential for growth.

I remember when I was in college one of my professor’s saying he had never seen a dancer make major strides after age 25 – MAX! This totally took hold of my brain and I felt like the clock was ticking. O gosh, I only had a few years left to progress as a dancer.

Luckily, this is soo not true and in fact you can continue to grow and make major improvements to your dancing as you learn more about your body and the way of working and cross – training that works for you.

Ready to make your goals a reality? Here’s how:

Break your goals down into bite size action steps and work towards them each day. Keep a journal to chart your progress and to help you get any limiting beliefs out of your head. You may not achieve them all, but taking serious action WILL get you closer to your goals.

I honestly believe that if you have received good training and you work as hard as your body and mind allow each day, anything is possible for your career. It may require auditioning for companies you didn’t previously consider or moving to a city or state you never imagined living in.

Tenacity, drive and hard work can take you a long way but you’ve got to support yourself mentally.

In The Whole Dancer Program I’ve had the beautiful opportunity to connect with each participant one on one. There have been a number of resonant messages, among those is the fact that most dancers are “people pleasers”.

We want teachers, guest choreographers, and artistic directors to like us. That’s all find and good. There’s a place for that desire and to an extent, yes, someone has to like you for you to keep your job.

BUT

I hope that one of your goals is to dance for YOU. You will shine much brighter and gain more supporters and ‘fans’ when your love for this art radiates out of your face and body each day.

XO, Jess

Photo: Lauren King, Soloist, New York City Ballet

The post Set goals to go further. appeared first on The Whole Dancer.

by Stacy West

Have you ever had a teacher or choreographer who said or did something that made you feel bad about yourself or your dancing?

If you are a serious dancer the chances are good that you have. If not, unfortunately the chances are good that you may someday find yourself in that situation.

Dance teachers and choreographers have long been portrayed as authoritarian figures. There’s an almost romantic notion that you aren’t a real dancer unless you’ve experienced things like bloody feet and being screamed at by a semi-unstable teacher or choreographer. Movies such as Black Swan and reality shows like Dance Moms perpetuate this idea.

While it’s true that there are standard expectations of discipline and etiquette in dance, it’s also true that some teachers and choreographers cross the line, creating an abusive environment for their dancers.

In a world where corrections are considered a compliment, it can sometimes be confusing to tell the difference between someone who is pushing you to be your best and someone who is causing damage to you, your self-esteem and your love for dance.

Being pushed by a teacher is one of the ways you can improve. But abusive teachers gain self-esteem through the humiliation or shaming of others and they regularly use their position of authority in negative ways.

What should you do if the authority figure in the room routinely creates an environment that goes beyond the norm? As a dancer do you have the right to stand up or yourself?

The answer is a definite YES! Here are some suggestions for how to deal with the situation:

1. Take a Deep Breath 

Remind yourself that personal attacks which are emotionally abusive are unjustified and that you have the right to stand up for yourself. Make the decision that you will take a calm, professional approach to solving issues that have arisen.

2. Read the situation

Some choreographers take their personal frustrations, insecurities and creative blocks out on their dancers. Observe the room to determine how your peers are feeling and what the root of the tension is. Discovering this can sometimes make verbal attacks feel less personal.

3. Ask for Clarity

Often when situations become tense it’s because something isn’t clear. Calmly and politely explain that you are trying to give what they want but you need more clarification. Others in the room likely need it too.

4. Seek the Advice of a Mentor

A mentor is someone who you trust and respect and who has a lot more experience than you do. It’s always good to have a mentor or two in your life. Use them as a sounding board when you need advice. Talk with them about your specific situation and seek their feedback on how to best handle it.

5. Express Your Concerns

 Make an appointment outside of rehearsal to express your concerns professionally and in person. This shows you have respect for the process. You can talk with the superior of the teacher or choreographer you are struggling with or you can talk with the person directly.

If you choose the latter, consider having a studio owner or artistic director present. If possible document your concerns in writing or an email. That way, if you need to pursue further action you have documentation.

6. Don’t Gossip

Nothing weakens you or your case more than gossiping. Keep your complaints professional and follow the chain of command.

7. Evaluate

Depending on how issues are handled and resolved in your organization you may have to determine if staying in this environment is the best choice for you.

Every teacher or choreographer you encounter won’t be your absolute favorite. But chances are good that if you handle the situation professionally, most disputes can be resolved and you will gain the respect of those you work with.

If you determine that the situation is indeed unpleasant but tolerable, try to learn something from it. Grow from it and take mental notes to remember when you become a teacher. Hopefully you will never make your students feel this way.

If it truly is a situation that continues to wreak havoc on you, your self-esteem and your love for dance, or if it becomes physically abusive it’s ok to walk away. It’s ok to walk away even if you thought it was going to be your most amazing dance opportunity to date.

Accept that it wasn’t and begin the process of finding the place and people who are the right fit for you. It’s out there and your next favorite dance teacher or choreographer is waiting for you to step into his or her studio.

Stacy West is the Executive and Artistic Director of the St. Louis based MADCO (Modern American Dance Company), a 40-year old professional contemporary dance company that reaches over 30,000 people annually.

Photo credit : uhuru1701 via VisualHunt.com / CC BY-SA

Photo credit: grey_barklay via Visualhunt.com / CC BY-NC-ND

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You have a lot of power in your life. Admittedly, it doesn’t always feel that way.

This weeks challenge presents a small way to assert that power. It’s all about you. This simple switch can create big shifts in how you see yourself.

You can change your mindset and alter your self – talk.

When I was dancing professionally, my artistic director notoriously hated red leotards. So most of us avoided them. You know what was sad? Red leotards were my favorite to wear!

If I could go back I would rock that leo proudly and use it as a way to assert my personal power and confidence.

If you’ve seen The Whole Dancer on Instagram, you know I pay tribute to this most weeks with #redleotardwednesday!

What change will you make today? Don’t forget to commit to the challenge by leaving a comment below!

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She took part in the first round of The Whole Dancer Program in September of 2015 and when I got to speak with her one – on – one during the program, I was taken by her humility and pure loveliness.

Lauren dances full time with Boston Ballet and takes college courses, so there is clearly a lot on her plate. I wondered if she would be able to add The Whole Dancer Program to that mix AND get results.

So when I received an email from her on Saturday in response to “The trouble with casting”, I was thrilled. She wrote:

“The topic of this email and worksheet really hit home with me and is the perfect thing to help me start 2016 in a positive mindset!!

I am looking forward to completing the worksheet to help calm the anxieties that have arisen in my subconscious mind during my layoff after Nutcracker.

I find myself worrying about not getting cast in any good roles when we return from break, when in reality I shouldn’t be so worried!

2015 was an important year for me, because I feel I was able to find confidence in myself and my dancing not only when things were going well, but also when I wasn’t cast in a good role or I wasn’t getting any attention from the artistic staff…

I think this change in my thinking and confidence was improved in part by my participation in The Whole Dancer Program. I didn’t fully realize it until now, so I wanted to make sure I reached out to you to thank you!”

I asked Lauren if I could share her message with you all because I know how deeply dancers internalize the disappointment and self – criticism that often arises when that casting sheet goes up or a rejection email arrives or you just have a really bad day.

Lauren was excited to share her message and said, “I hope it helps someone decide to sign up for the program!” 

Finding the confidence in yourself and your dancing each and every day takes some work. The Whole Dancer Program is designed to help you prioritize that work.

If you’re inspired by Lauren’s message, don’t delay, it’s time to sign up!

The post Lauren Herfindahl’s Experience in The Whole Dancer Program appeared first on The Whole Dancer.

Depending on where you are geographically and personally you may or may not be in a forced state of relaxation which can actually be very stressful! So why do dancers get stressed by breaks?

Well, for me, I had teachers saying, “however long you take off, it will take you at least twice as long to get back to where you were before the break.” I think lots of dancers have heard a similar variation of that warning.

It certainly instills a belief that taking no time off is the best option. 

I want you to give yourself a break.

It doesn’t have to be a totally lazy time with absolutely no movement (although I don’t think that is always the worst idea either) but allow yourself the space to explore other things.

Consider the following list and commit try one new practice. This way you get some r + r AND enhance your life at the same time!

1. Go to a yoga class. The movement is different and that variety is beneficial. I felt a new and different strength as a dancer after incorporating yoga into my life!
2. Swim. It’s great cardio and a super gentle way to keep moving your body after the intensity of performing so much.
3. Have a trainer assess your physical weaknesses and create a cross – training plan around those discoveries. A trainer who is not familiar with dance may need some help as to what sorts of things you need strength for. As a non – dancer they may provide totally new insight – stay open.
4. Try out new, healthy recipes.
5. Go back to the basics. Sometimes when we’re taking advanced classes we don’t have the opportunity to work on the small details. Work on your own on the things you know could use some attention.
6. Meditate – the headspace app provides a beautiful 10 – day challenge if you’re new to meditation.
7. Find inspiration: go to the theater or a museum and experience some other arts.
8. Read a book. If you typically stick to fiction try non – fiction and vice versa.
9. Start a blog. Need inspiration? Check out Kirsten Evans blog Setting the Barre! Yesterday she wrote a beautiful post about The Whole Dancer Program!
10. Do some planning! This is the perfect time to create a plan to take serious action in 2016. Are you into resolutions? A resolution is defined as:

the act of resolving or determining upon an action, course of action, method, procedure, etc.

Resolutions are great BUT don’t forget the step where you actually map out your course of action!

Post a comment below and let me know what new practice you’re going to try or what your go – to lay off activities are! 

And, since we’re on the subject of action, don’t forget to sign up for The Whole Dancer January 16′ no – cost workshop on Fearless Auditioning! This workshop is now available as an audio training in The Whole Dancer Foundations Course!

The post Finding Space appeared first on The Whole Dancer.

There’s a lot of very unhealthy tactics dancers employ during Nutcracker season in an effort to show no weakness and simply push through it!

Then, there are the performers who have found a healthy and grounded routine that works for them. They have likely developed their healthy “Nutty” habits over the years and are able to breeze through the season without getting sick or injured.

Let me help you get on the fast track to cleaning up your Nutcracker Act by highlighting some of the most common tactics most of us have tried to “push through” this busy season.

Sugar = Fast Energy, right? WRONG…

“Instead of providing the body with nutrition, it creates deficiency. It enters swiftly into the bloodstream and wreaks havoc on the blood sugar level, first pushing it sky-high—causing excitability, nervous tension and hyperactivity—and then dropping it extremely low—causing fatigue, depression, weariness and exhaustion, ” says Joshua Rosenthal of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.

As you can see, sugar is not only no good as a source of performance energy but it also increases the likelihood that you will get sick.

Running on Adrenaline…

If you don’t prioritize healthy sleep and relaxation habits during Nutcracker time, you’re likely putting an excessive workload on your adrenal glands which are your bodies primary shock absorbers.

This can also lead to an increase in cortisol, the stress hormone, “cortisol increases your appetite and energy level while toning down your immune systems allergic and inflammatory responses,” says Dr. Christine Northrup.

The “I can do it all” Mentality

Some things have got to give. You can’t expect to take class, go to rehearsals, cross – train, find balance, go holiday shopping, cook your meals, work an extra job, run your blog, sew your pointe shoes, get 9 – hours of sleep, go on dates, attend every holiday party, AND perform your best.

You need to plan and prioritize!

So many of you already took the time to register for the no – cost “Self – Care for Nutcracker Season” webinar, one week from today. Shelby and I are so thrilled!!

This workshop is now available as an audio training in The Whole Dancer Foundations Course!

The post Common Nutcracker traps! appeared first on The Whole Dancer.

These recordings provided some incredibly gorgeous inspiration, hello Susan Jaffe, Paloma Hererra and Leslie Browne.

I also had the privilege of seeing NYCB perform live quite a bit. We had a friend with 2^nd row orchestra season tickets who regularly couldn’t make it to performances so he gave us his seats free of charge – amazing!!

My city ballet inspirations included Wendy Whelan, Alexandra Ansanelli and Miranda Weese. So much gorgeousness and talent, I absorbed as much as I could.

However, there was not the consistent inundation of images and ridiculous talent that you as dancers are surrounded with now…no 15 – year old prodigies posting 6 –pirouette videos or insane feats of flexibility and strength on instagram.

I don’t even remember watching youtube much until after college, and even then it was old videos of the classics (Makarova, Baryshnikov), not YAGP gold medal winners a decade younger than me and (seemingly) infinitely more talented.

Inspiration is important.

Find dancers you admire and take in what you can from them. Learn from their quality of movement and find motivation to work on your own strength and form.

Consider the dancers you’re surrounded by daily. These are likely your peers or at least technicians of a similar caliber – if you’re dancing next to them in a ballet company, there’s a reason. Let their beauty inform your own.

But…

Let the dancer who provides your greatest inspiration and motivation be YOU.

The dancer you look at in the mirror everyday; let her be your biggest motivation, competition and inspiration.

Remember where you started and admire how far you’ve come.

“When I step on stage, I do so not because I think I am the best, but because I want to give what I have to give.”

~Keenan Kampa

Give what you have to give for your audience AND yourself.

See your growth, improvement and talent. Remember the very young ballerina who used to try and emulate Balanchine or Russian technique even though she was never formally trained in either (and remember how silly she looked…maybe that was just me).

Remember the moments of fear when she went to her first big summer program audition and worried she didn’t measure up. Notice the certitude you’ve developed since then.

Or, the times she totally psyched herself out because the girl standing next to her had some really impressive pre – class stretches going on (the doubt those super bendy folks could instill was pretty incredible).

Don’t forget the joy of that first summer program acceptance letter and the little boost of confidence it provided.

Believe in the growth you’ve achieved. The difference between the uncertainty of those first few pointe classes and the strength and comfort you now feel on your toes.

There are ups and downs in the dedicated pursuit of this art form. If we don’t cultivate a loving relationship with our work, and ourselves we can become bitter.

To maintain the joy, focus inward. You are beautiful and talented and unique. 

And always, always remember:

“Don’t waste time on jealousy. Sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind…the race is long and in the end it’s only with yourself.”

~Baz Luhrman, The Sunscreen Song

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