In our ballet classes, we often find certain dancers that can take an array of criticisms whether harsh or instructional. They keep on coming and keep on smiling. Sometimes we think about what makes them so strong. In a previous article, we discussed How to Handle a Difficult Teacher but today we want to discuss the importance of developing a character that can openly accept corrections. The ballet journey is not always the easiest. You have decided to try and climb one of the steepest pyramids in the world and your success may, at least partially, hang on your ability to handle difficult situations and absorb criticism. We want to give you a couple of tips toward developing the characteristics of what we call a “bulletproof” ballet dancer.
1. Learning To Take A Little Damage
Don’t misunderstand, we are not advocating mean teachers as a good thing. But, if they’re out there, and they are, let’s learn how to gain something positive out of the experience. When dealing with a mean teacher or fellow student the question becomes; how do I still get something out of this? What am I learning now? It’s this; you are learning to take a little damage. The keyword here is “little.” If the teacher or fellow dancer is just abusive, and that’s all you’re learning from them, you may need to remove yourself or your child from the situation. Short of that, try this:
When they say something mean, look at yourself in the mirror and say to yourself: “Look, I am not diminished. I have the same muscles and bones as a second ago. I am just as strong and capable as I was before they said that cruel thing. They have not made me less. I don’t need their faith in me, I have my own. I will make progress in spite of their mean comments. I am still here to work. I am the same!” Creating a Positive Outlook for yourself will allow you to move past the negativity to become a better person and dancer!
2. Look To Your Friends And Fellow Dancers
Throughout your career, you will develop friendships and special bonds with your fellow dancers. Dance is a wonderful community and we often help each other through hard times. We cheer our friends’ successes even when it comes at the cost of our own. There is strength and comfort to be found in the dancers around you. Even if the teacher is trying to play you against each other, which is something far too common, your fellow classmates are still a great source of understanding. If the teacher is being mean for the sake of being mean, you can believe you are not the only one who’s noticed. Don’t let anyone sour your friendships amongst your fellow artists. If you support them, most likely, they will support you. And if they don’t, then at least you know you did the right thing by them, even if they didn’t return the favor. This will pay off in the end, trust us!
Last thought before we let you go. It’s a little analogy that we tell our students sometimes. Did you know that when you burn the outside of a piece of wood you make it waterproof? It’s often used in woodworking to finish certain projects. How cool is that? Something that could be so harmful, used to add benefit. Maybe the choice is yours. Will you be burnt to ash? Or will you take a little damage to learn to be stronger?
In life, there may be people that try to bring you down. However, at Veyette Virtual Ballet School we teach the value of self-confidence and the importance of building a “bulletproof” character. If you are struggling with a mean teacher or are looking for a more demanding and nurturing ballet environment, please click the “contact us” button below!