Starting the Dance Year Strong: How to Set Yourself Up for Success

The school year is beginning, and with it comes the excitement of getting back into the studio. Maybe you’re starting with new classes, meeting new teachers, or dancing alongside new classmates. Or perhaps you’re heading back into a familiar routine with the same schedule as last season. Either way, the start of the year is the perfect time to get organized, set goals, and make a plan so you can make the most of your dancing.

Balancing school, dance, family, friends, and possibly even a job can be a challenge. Without a plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and just “get through” the year. But with a little organization, you can transform your season into one of growth, achievement, and joy.

So, how do you start a successful dance year?

1. Set Clear Goals

The first step to success is knowing where you want to go. I always recommend making:

• Three short-term goals (things you can work on in the next 1–3 months)

• Three long-term goals (things you want to achieve in 6–12 months)

  
  

Examples of short-term goals:

• Doing an extra 10-minute stretch and strengthening session at home 3 times a week

• Memorizing a ballet barre combination without looking at other dancers

• Improving your stamina by adding short cardio sessions into your week

  
  

Examples of long-term goals:

• Nailing a triple pirouette with control and consistency

• Making it to the finals in a major audition

• Building the confidence to perform a solo on stage

  
  

2. Make a Plan

Goals are only dreams until you create a plan to achieve them. For each goal, ask yourself: What specific steps will I take? When will I do them?

• Stretch and strengthening at home? Choose set days and times, and stick to them like an appointment.

• Memorizing ballet combinations? Commit to not looking around at other dancers during class, after class, write down what you remember of the combinations

• Improving pirouettes? Find exercises to build your core and balance, then add them to your weekly routine.

• Preparing for auditions? Research what’s expected, break down the skills needed, and dedicate weekly practice time to those areas.

  
  

3. Track Your Progress

Progress can feel slow, and sometimes you don’t notice how far you’ve come. That’s why it’s so valuable to keep a journal. Writing things down helps you reflect, track your improvements, and stay motivated. When you look back after a few weeks or months, you’ll see how much you’ve accomplished—even if you haven’t quite hit your goal yet.

4. Stay Accountable

Accountability can make all the difference. Share your goals with your parents, your dance teacher, or a trusted dance friend. Ask them to check in with you or give you that gentle nudge when your motivation dips. Knowing someone else is rooting for you helps you stay consistent.

5. Be Flexible and Kind to Yourself

Not every goal will be reached on the timeline you expect—and that’s okay. Not hitting a goal doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It simply means you’re still on the journey.

• Look back at the progress you’ve already made.

• Ask yourself: Do I still want this goal? If yes, re-commit.

• Adjust your plan if needed. Maybe your steps need to change, or maybe you simply need more time.

• Don’t hesitate to ask your teacher for advice—they’ll know how to guide you toward your next step.

  
  

6. Keep Going!

The start of the dance season is full of promise. With clear goals, a solid plan, and the support of your dance community, you’ll be amazed at how much you can achieve this year.

So grab your journal, write down those goals, and get ready to take your dancing to the next level. Here’s to a wonderful and successful dance season ahead!

✨ Tip: Using a dedicated dance journal can help you stay on track with your goals, track progress, and reflect on your journey throughout the year.  Check out this journal I designed with these steps in mind!  https://www.avdancedesigns.com/products