Why I Continue to Train as a Dancer Despite Owning a Studio

Running a dance studio is a dream come true for me. I love creating a vibrant community and watching confidence build in our students. While I dance and participate any chance I get within our own studio walls, I also look to train outside of our classes and workshops. I take workshops from different instructors any chance I get, take a weekly hip hop and bharatanatyam class.  The very reason I opened a dance studio was to share this passion with others. Yet, training outside of my studio walls remains an integral part of my life. It's not just about sharing the love; it's about living it too.

Continued Personal Growth: Training keeps me on my toes. It's a commitment to personal growth and helps me stay relevant in an ever-evolving dance landscape. Learning new techniques and styles not only keeps my skills razor-sharp but also ensures that I am a lifelong student. How can I be a good teacher if I am not first and always a student?

Leading by Example: I believe in leading by example. It would be silly for me to tell our members, especially our adult students, that they should always keep dancing if I, myself, am not doing so. My active participation in training serves as proof that it is never too late to find/pursue something you love to do. It's a message to my students that the journey of improvement never truly ends, no matter how experienced you are.

Understanding My Students: Being a student at the age of 35 is a humbling experience. And I absolutely love it. Whenever I take dance classes, I always have our own students at the forefront of my mind. "This is what they must think, feel, etc." It allows me to have a deep understanding of their experience. If I am always the one giving direction, how am I able to understand how to take it? The challenges of remembering an 8 count, the satisfaction of nailing a step I couldn't get for weeks—I've been there and I am still there.

Maintaining Creative Integrity: Beyond the business side of things, I'm a creative. I am a pharmacist during the day, but by nature, I am a creator. My routines and choreography are my outlet. Continuing to dance ensures that I maintain my creativity.

Personal Fulfillment: Dance isn't just a profession; it's a part of who I am. I have been dancing longer than I can remember. I was never without it. Every time I think it's time to take a break or pause, I find myself getting that urge a few days later. Training brings me personal fulfillment, both physically and mentally. It's my weekly dose of joy and self.

Balancing the role of a dancer, teacher, and dance student are two roles that I am not willing to give up anytime soon. I love bringing a routine to life—from a concept in my head to a full production on stage. I also love standing in front of a mirror and waiting for dance moves from someone else. It's been a blessing to be on each side.