In the dance community, there is a popular saying, “Don’t practice until you get it right, practice until you can’t get it wrong.” This quote goes far beyond just the act of dancing. Dancing teaches valuable lessons any individual can carry far into their professional careers.
Below are 5 traits that get instilled in dancers that can be implemented into all of our aspect of life:
- Determination
No one was born knowing how to high kick or pirouette. You get there by practicing, failing, and trying again. You get closer and closer until you finally get it. That feeling you get when you succeed is like no other. Now, take this determination one has for learning moves and apply it to your career. If you do not obtain a job, you keep applying until you do. If you are established in a job but are trying to reach that promotion, use that determination to show your boss how much you deserve it.
- Precision
There is one simple truth with any dancer, sloppy is not an option. Dance teachers drill into children at a young age to make all their movements animated, but clean. Being swift in your movement is one of the most important things to remember. This is the same in any job! Be precise in anything you accomplish, this can include proofreading emails, double checking calculations or even just keeping your desk clean and organized so you can work quickly and efficiently!
- Teamwork
Whether you are in the studio, on the stage, or in competition, teamwork must be impeccable. One person being out of sync can affect the whole performance. Apply this to the workforce! Speak up on the job! Do your part to make sure things flow on your projects and encourage others to shine! Whether you are on the stage or in the office, rely on your teammates and let them rely on you too.
- Self-Confidence
The first time someone steps into the studio, no matter their age, they have no idea what they are doing. Nevertheless, as time goes on, they learn. What happens as you learn? You grow confidence. The same goes for anything you do. As you learn new skills, you gain confidence to step outside your comfort zone and go for things you never thought would be in your reach.
- Flexibility
Now yes, dance teaches a different kind of flexibility than what we are going to discuss, but the concept is still the same. The obvious topic is flexibility in your body. However, dance also shows someone how to adapt to any changes on the spot. As they say, the show must go on. Dance demonstrates the flexibility to balance emotions, increase cognitive skills, and excel with social interactions. While at work, no matter what your profession, changes can come your way at a moment’s notice, you have to roll with the punches.
It is no secret that dance promotes physical health and wellness. However, a dancer does not just grow in their physical and technical skills but also as a disciplined, accountable, and visionary individual in this world.
