10 Quotes to Motivate and Inspire Dancers
For the month of March, we covered all things support and community, from supportive ballet companies, to advice from our ambassadors and a lesson on resilience with ballerina Jazz Bynum. Support comes in many shapes, sizes, and forms. Sometimes, support and motivation must come from within. In those situations, a great way to motivate yourself is by reading or reciting inspirational quotes.
Related: Positive Affirmations for Dancers
In fact, there's a psychological reason for this effect. “The message that someone else believes you can achieve what you want to achieve can be a powerful incentive to try harder,” noted psychologist and motivation expert Jonathan Fader in this article. He goes on to explain how when a teacher, coach, or mentor believes you can do something, you’re more likely to do it. Reciting quotes can have that same effect, except you’re giving the pep-talk to yourself.
Reciting a positive or motivating quote can make you feel…
Reminded of why you’re on this journey.
Refueled and recharged after overcoming an obstacle.
Confident and courageous enough to step outside of your comfort zone.
Like you’re not alone for experiencing challenges.
Focused and on track to reach your goals.
Below, we’ve listed 10 quotes to keep you going when you need an extra boost of motivation. Consider reciting these quotes daily, posting your favorite one on a sticky note, or just keeping them in mind as you evolve through your dance career.
“Dance first. Think later. It’s the natural order.” - Samuel Beckett
“Great artists are people who find the way to be themselves in their art.” - Margot Fonteyn
"You make mistakes. Mistakes don't make you." - Maxwell Maltz
"Practice like you've never won. Perform like you've never lost." - Bernard F. Asuncion
“I do not try to dance better than anyone else. I only try to dance better than myself.” - Mikhail Baryshnikov
“I may not be there yet, but I am closer than I was yesterday.” - Misty Copeland
"The comeback is always stronger than the setback." - Author Unknown
“There’s nothing wrong with fear; the only mistake is to let it stop you in your tracks.” - Twyla Tharp
“Great dancers are not great because of their technique, they are great because of their passion.” - Martha Graham
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” - C.S. Lewis
As a dancer, a big part of your job is to stay focused, creative, confident, and passionate in order to fully express yourself on and off the stage. Use motivational quotes as a tool to keep you on track throughout your journey.
Tell us, which quote listed above was your favorite? If it wasn’t one on this list, tell us in the comments below!
Check out our Brown Ballerina Blog for more articles tailored toward dance students, dance teachers, and professional dancers!