September 1 marks the beginning of a whole new year—a new dance year, that is. You're fresh from your summer intensive, getting back into a regular class and rehearsal schedule and learning choreography for a new set of performances.
If you attended a summer intensive, let that momentum carry you into the new school year. Students in Miami City Ballet School’s summer repertory performance, photo by Ella Titus.
Set realistic goals. According to a study that looked at New Year's Resolutions, 46% of resolutions fail within six months. That's probably because so many of us set unreasonably high expectations for ourselves, or create lists of goals that are a mile long. If you expect to perfect every aspect of your technique in one season, you're setting yourself up for frustration. It's great to challenge yourself, but you're more likely to see tangible progress when you make your goals smaller and more concrete.
Be flexible. One study found that when we make our goals a bit broader, rather than extremely specific, we're more likely to follow through. So if you're a non-morning person who wants to start cross-training before class, try aiming for 3-5 early days a week instead of making five days a week the only option.
Stay motivated. A new season, and all the possibilities it holds, is exciting—but it can also be daunting. Once you start working towards a goal, keep checking in with yourself and try these tips for keeping procrastination at bay if you start to waver.
Build on summer intensive momentum. If you attended an intensive this year, chances are you're energized and renewed after a summer of new experiences. Use that energy when you're back at your home studio: keep notes of helpful corrections you received from your new teachers, stay in touch with friends from your intensive and talk to your teachers at home about what you hope to accomplish this year. They'll probably be happy to help!
