In a world where likes and views seem to measure your self-worth, it can be easy to feel that you have only “made it” once you go viral. You see other dancers on TikTok collect views for their pirouette challenges or dance GRWMs. However, going viral is not the only way you can make an impact. There are other ways to leave your mark on someone or something. While going viral is cool, it doesn’t define you as a dancer or as a person. Your dancing and everything you do should be for you!
Keeping it Real
The real impact starts in real life, not someone’s phone screen. Have you ever helped a teammate get through a tough practice? Have you ever stayed late helping someone to learn the choreography or shared words of kindness to bring a smile to somebody’s face? These moments leave an impact. It doesn’t matter how many views your video gets. It matters how you show up for the people around you. This includes your teammates, coaches, friends, and family. People will always remember how you made them feel, they aren’t going to remember how many likes your post got.
The Small Things Do Matter
Just because you don’t see it, doesn’t mean it isn’t happening. So, just because you don’t see how much that younger dancer looks up to you, doesn’t mean they aren’t thinking how much they want to dance like you. You never know who is watching you, not just through a screen. All the small kind things that you do add up. That compliment that you gave your teammate might be just what they needed to hear before they were about to quit dancing. Kindness creates a ripple effect that will leave an everlasting impact.
Not Everything is How it Seems
While going viral can make you feel seen, sometimes it is not exactly what you want it to be. You never know what video will go viral. It might even be one you didn’t mean to post. And when you start to view everything you post as just views, it can take away your fun. It can be easy to start dancing for others instead of yourself, but dancing for yourself should always come first.
You are Already Leaving an Impact
Having influence isn’t limited to your social media presence. How you use your voice, kindness, and talents to help others all expand your influence on the world. This includes the positive energy you bring to dance class, giving compliments, sharing your journey to help others, or creating a safe and fun environment.
