5 New Year's Resolutions for Dancers (and How to Keep Them)
Whew! We made it to 2021. Now that we’re two weeks in, how are your resolutions holding up? If you didn’t even make a resolution this year, we totally get it. Last year left many of us battered and exhausted, finding it hard to feel optimistic about what this year will bring.
Don’t be discouraged! It’s never a bad idea to try again. This year, we can all be wiser by knowing that anything can change our plans, and that’s okay, as long as we always have something to work toward.
If you haven’t set a New Year’s resolution yet, we’re here to help! We’ve created a list of potential resolutions for dancers, along with tips to help you keep them no matter what chaos this year may bring.
Resolutions
Resolution #1 - Build Your Network
Taking time to nurture your relationships in the dance industry can have many benefits. For one, you will create a support system of friends who can uplift you through tough times. By building your network, you might also find a mentor who can guide you through career transitions. Below are a few ways you can achieve this resolution.
Reach out to your fellow classmates.
Follow and interact with others on social media.
Join virtual workshops.
Resolution #2 - Perfect a Technique
What’s one dance technique or ballet style you wish you could execute? Practice makes perfect, and prioritizing practice makes you feel comfortable and confident with time. Think of a technique you’d like to master, then devote the year to focusing on it. Here’s how:
Join virtual workshops.
Discover your specialty by trying new things.
Practice daily.
Research online.
Ask for help.
Resolution #3 - Become an Expert
Dance is more than just moving your body. Being an expert in the dance industry means understanding its history, its inspirations, and its impact on the world. Take some time to study new aspects of dance that you’re curious about.
Research the background and history of different productions.
Study different dance companies nationwide and worldwide.
Take a class.
Connect with dancers in different industries.
Work with friends to learn new things.
Resolution #4 - Get Involved
If you feel inspired to give back to your community, there are many ways to get involved, especially in the dance community. You can volunteer your time, your talents, your experience, or even your other professional skills to help individuals and organizations in your community.
Find nonprofit organizations to be a part of.
Find volunteer opportunities in your local neighborhood (studios, small shops, churches, etc.)
Be a mentor to others.
Raise funds and donate.
Collect supplies or food for donations.
Start your own volunteer organization.
Resolution #5 Enhance Your Brand
Are you hoping to take your dance career to the next level? If so, consider taking the year to upgrade your brand as a professional dancer. Think about the impression you’d like to make on potential employers, casting directors, and other dancers.
Brainstorm your brand identity (mission statement, goals, involvements, etc.)
Create a dance reel.
Have professional dance photos taken.
Create a professional dance website.
Upgrade your social media profile.
Related: Tips for Capturing Quality Dance Photos with photographer Shoccara Marcus
How to Keep Resolutions
Setting a resolution is one thing, but staying on track throughout the year is another. If you have a hard time staying motivated as the year progresses, it could be time to reexamine the routines that work best for you when working toward a goal. Below are a few tips for keeping yourself on track.
Tip #1 - Set specific goals.
What exactly would you like to accomplish? For example, if you picked Resolution #1, your specific goal may be to meet 5 new people in the dance community.
Think of the “who,” “what,” “when,” “where,” “why” and “how” behind your goal.
Related: Creating a Dance Vision Board
Tip #2 - Be realistic about your “how.”
Break your goal down into bite-sized tasks that you can complete throughout the year.
Figure out the most convenient or natural time for you to complete these goals, then map out your schedule accordingly. For example, if you’re not a morning person, don’t put your tasks first thing in the morning.
Tip #3 - Find a tribe of like-minded individuals.
These individuals will serve as your support system, holding you accountable while also inspiring you to stay on track.
Tip #4 - Reward yourself.
Find ways to make your bite-sized tasks enjoyable. For example, if you are working on Resolution #3, you can munch on your favorite snack while researching.
Track your progress and reward yourself. Celebrate your small wins!
Tip #5 - Adjust as necessary.
As the year progresses, examine your feelings and habits to ensure your routine is working well for you. It’s okay to change your resolution or the way you go about achieving it.
Pay attention to your progress and make adjustments to your techniques as needed.
No matter what resolution you choose, always remember to be kind to yourself along the way! If there’s anything 2020 taught us, it’s that plans don’t always work out the way we want them to. What’s important is that you remain hopeful and motivated to walk in your purpose in any way possible!
What are your New Year’s resolutions? Comment below!