“What are the top three lessons you’ve learned in your career (or in life) so far?” ~Andrea, CA
Hi Andrea,
Your question is very thought provoking for me. I have learned so much in my career and every lesson I learned shaped the rest of my career up until now. One of the most important lessons I've learned is to attach myself to people I trust. In the industry it is hard to find people you can trust and who believe in your true talent. Many people are out for themselves in the dance business. It was great when I worked on gigs with people that really believed in my abilities and what I had to offer as a dancer and performer. The reason I knew that was because those people hired me time and time again. I felt that I could be depended on and that helped boost my confidence and it drove me even more in my career. It also made me feel comfortable at work. As dancers we always end up in different places and different surroundings, sometimes far away from home. When you are working with people that are closer to you and that you trust, it gives you a sense of home. That is something that is not easy to come by. It was a great lesson learned and many of those people that I felt this way about I am still in contact with today. They are friends... a great thing to have in this business.
The second lesson I learned was to never get comfortable. Continue working on your craft. I have seen dancers completely stop training as soon as they began working consistently. You can become somewhat lazy when the paychecks start rolling in... Stay in class!!! Remember that while your out working, the next young dancer is coming up behind you ready to grab the spotlight. You have to stay on top of your game! If you do, you will have longevity in your career. That is the key to a successful dance career. You need to stay in shape, stay healthy and take care of your body. Staying on top of your training is the way to do it. I carried this lesson into owning a business. I want to keep my dance studio on top of the game. I want to set the standard all other studios follow. I will never get lazy and fall behind. A great lesson learned!
The third and final lesson is that in this business... everything happens for a reason... and I truly believe that!!! When I look back at how my career has transpired, it amazes me. So many opportunities led to so many other opportunities, being in the right place at the right time, choosing between jobs, meeting certain people, the list goes on and on. You have to follow your gut!!! Whenever I was unsure or torn on a decision, I followed my instinct. Stay true to who you are and your values and don't let artificial people or things tempt you from straying away from who you truly are. There were times in my career where I let money sway me from making the right decision. I regretted those decisions and I learned from them. Stay faithful to the people that are true to you and let everything else fall into place. I believe my dance path was laid out for me. It was up to me to put in the work and head down that road. I went forward full force and let fate take its course. I have no regrets and I am so thankful to all those that helped shape my career.
We learn new lessons every single day. Don't forget them... they happen for a reason! Wishing you all the best!
"Be ICONic"
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