Graduation season is approaching. This can feel simultaneously exciting and terrifying as you experience a lot of different emotions all at once. This milestone can present a double challenge for dancers who are graduating from high school and the studio.
Odds are you don’t have a clear path figured out (which is totally okay and normal). You might be debating between a gap year, college, pro dance and auditions. When everyone is asking what you are doing next, it can be stressful, but it is normal to be unsure in this time of transition.
Stop Trying to Pick Your Forever—Pick Your Next Step
It can be easy to get caught up in the mindset of “this decision affects my whole life” when that is actually not the case at all. This time of life isn’t about choosing your forever career. You are choosing a stepping stone into the next chapter of your life. This is going to look different for everyone. It could look like going to college, joining a dance company, taking a gap year to travel, or spending some time teaching or assisting. There is no “wrong decision.”
Separate Your Passion from the Pressure
Since dance is such a passion for dancers, it tends to be the first thing that comes to mind. You are probably thinking that your love of dance means you have to move toward a professional dance career. But dance is not an obligation!
It is completely okay to separate your passion from your profession. Ask yourself some questions and answer them honestly. Do you love performing or do you love training? Do you want dance to be your living or your safe space? Do you feel stressed or excited when thinking about pursuing it professionally? These answers should give you a better idea. There is no right or wrong answer.
Don’t Compare Your Path to Everyone Else’s
Everyone has a different path and timeline in life. That is what makes us all so unique. You will see people who are committing to colleges, moving to different cities, or signing with agencies. All of these things are great, but so is whatever you decide. There is no point in spending time comparing yourself to them because you aren’t them. Your timeline is entirely your own. There is no rush or time limit.
Try Things (You’re Allowed to Change Your Mind)
Sometimes things take trial and error. You are not going to get anywhere by sitting around and doing nothing new. What is the worst case? You try something and hate it? Okay, now you know it’s not for you, and you can rule it out. Try a new dance style, teach a kids dance class, or shadow someone in the industry if you are interested. This is the time to try new things!