The life of a dancer is not for the faint at heart. It takes years of training and auditioning. Even when you book your dream gig, the nature of the industry involves always staying on your toes and preparing for the period of time where you are out of work.
Along your dance journey, you will be faced with obstacles. One of the biggest obstacles you may find in your career is how to deal with the big "R" word -- REJECTION. In this blog, we provide you with a step-by-step list of tools and tactics to tackle the rejection bug when disappointment strikes.
Step 1) Feel all the feelings.
When you are first faced with rejection, it's okay to feel all the feelings. Maybe you didn't get into the dance program you had your sites set on or perhaps you didn't get that job you were in finals for. Take some time to scream, shout and cry it all out.
Step 2) Jot it down.
The next step is to make a list of everything that opportunity meant to you. Feel free to free write all across the page and record whatever comes to your mind. Some key insights may come up -- pay close attention to the following details:
-
What did this opportunity mean to you?
-
What would have changed in your life with this opportunity?
-
Why do you feel inadequate without this opportunity on the table?
-
What's next?
Step 3) CREATE A LEARNING OPPORTUNITY.
You might know exactly why something didn't go your way, but most of the time when it comes to a casting decision, your belief is all based on assumption. It's important to not dwell on what you may have done wrong (and in casting situations, it's typically based on a certain type). Instead, think about what you may have learned from an audition or experience. Apply what you learned to new situations.
STEP 4) LET IT GO.
It's easier said than done, but it's not healthy to dwell on the past and put energy on what could have been. Pick yourself up and get back on your dream grind.
STEP 5) LOOK BACK AT IT WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT.
When you do defeat the rejection bug and start finding success in your unique trajectory, take a look back on that time of disappointment. You may find that exact moment contributed directly to your newfound success.
You got this, JJ girl!