I began dancing when I was only 4 years old.

Dancing has been shaping me as an individual since before even school did, and it has helped mold me into who I am today, almost 16 years later. I’ve dipped my toe into many forms of dance, from ballet and modern to tap and jazz and everything in between. There are some things people learn growing up that are best taught in the dance studio.

1. Always keep a smile on your face.

Even when your feet hurt and your bun is pulling your hair so tight you’re getting a migraine, keep smiling. The audience doesn’t need to see the pain that got you to where you are.

2. Dress to impress.

Costumes, hair, and makeup can make or break any stage appearance. You wouldn’t wear sweats to a job interview, so dress for the occasion.

3. Stay balanced.

Like every aspect of your life, balance is a key part of any dance. Stay centered and retain a solid posture.

4. Be a role model.

Even if you are performing with an ensemble, there is at least one pair of eyes that can’t stop watching you. Dance your best and know the impact you could be having on someone in the audience.

5. Stay confident.

Do you remember how many practices, blisters, and bobby pins got you to this point? And now it’s all going to pay off and you’re going to nail it.

6. Be comfortable in your own skin.

Between leotards and backstage quick changes, you learn to be comfortable with yourself and your body. Do not compare yourselves to others, but know you are just as beautiful as the other dancers.

7. Respect and discipline.

Class and performances run much more smoothly when everyone works together, and dance teachers demand respect before anything else. Remember those cliché movies of ballet teachers with strict rules and dress code? It’s for real.

8. Perseverance and dedication.

Some days, the last thing you want to do is go to the dance studio for a four-hour practice, or slide your broken toes into pointe shoes, or even wear tights for the millionth day in a row. But you do it anyways, because putting in the effort makes it all worth it in the end.

9. Time management.

Practices were often five days a week with extra practices or Pilates over the weekend. Between dance, school, and anything else a student may have been taking on, it’s important to manage time wisely.

10. Accept failure.

One of the first things I learned as a dancer was to accept failure and work upwards from them. I didn’t hit every pirouette perfectly and sometimes my turn out wasn’t exactly where I wanted it, but I used that as inspiration to work harder.

11. Be passionate.

If you don’t love it, don’t do it. Pain and practice are all worth it if you sit down at the end of the day and know dance is something you can’t live without.

I am forever thankful for the lifelong friends and lessons I received through my years of dance. They have made me into a better person and have improved so many aspects of my life. My studio was my second home, and my teacher and fellow dancers were my second family. Dancing will always be one of my first loves.