Despite what people may think, being a dance teacher is hard work. I am sure that got a laugh! At times it can be stressful, draining and very tiring. But you already knew that, the key is what are you going to do about it? How can you keep yourself on an even keel? Teachers are always giving but it is important to receive. You need it for you own nurturing. Batteries need to be recharged, cars need fuel and so do planes. If you only give and give some more but never recharge you will run out of ideas, passion and energy.
So if we are going to be reasonably well-balanced and remain relatively sane, it is important that we pay attention not only to teaching and being creative, but also to helping ourselves maintain a good standard of physical and mental health. Below are the top five success principals that the top leaders follow. Each one is important and as Angie likes to tell me, balance is the key to success!
THE PHYSICAL
Eat simple food. Eat regularly and sleep regularly. Eat small portions. Exercise even for short periods of time, daily. Get some air. Take in sunlight or artificial light. Drink water. Wear comfortable clothing.
THE MENTAL
Think in a calm and logical way. Learn from people who are mentally superior. Read the best publications and books. Improve your memory. Concentrate. Do not worry unnecessarily. Be systematic in what you do. Weigh the pros and the cons. Avoid inferior minds.
THE MORAL
Understand that right is right and wrong is wrong. Be truthful. Look for recreation that will inspire you. Don't deceive yourself. Learn to say no. Live up to your principles. Keep yourself in good health.
THE FINANCIAL
Increase your earnings. Decrease any unnecessary expenses you may have. Save money. Money makes money. Invest money wisely. Make a budget. Work hard. Study your business. Increase your credit balance.
SOCIALLY
Avoid bad associates. Select friends who are helpful. Think by yourself. Learn to be happy in your own company. Family is generally your best company. Work out your problems by yourself. Stay away from phony people and takers. Entertain economically. Be respected by your neighbors. Help with charity work.
The importance of taking care of ourselves has never been more essential because of the stresses of modern day life and the challenges that bombard us from every direction every day. I keep this list handy and look over it from time to time to remind myself that balance is important not only in dance, but in our daily lives as well. A dance teacher is an artist, a business executive, a counselor, a leader and a psychologist all rolled into one. Other people are counting on us to produce and find solutions and make them feel good. I urge you to share some of these ideas with your peers so that everyone who surrounds you at work can be on the same page and therefore contribute to offering a better product at the end of the day.
This is your year, this is your time! Be all you can be and watch how you soar!
