Corrections = Belief in Your Potential

LPD, 2021

The journey toward improving technique and expressing artistry is filled with challenges. One of the most crucial, yet often difficult, aspects of this journey is learning to accept corrections.

It can be tough to hear that you’re doing something incorrectly or that you need to change what you’re doing. These moments can make you feel vulnerable or even self-conscious. However, it’s important to remember that when a teacher offers you a correction, it’s not a critique of who you are as a dancer, but rather a gift—one that is rooted in respect and belief in your potential.

Understanding Corrections as a Sign of Respect

In a dance class, every correction given by a teacher is an opportunity for growth. When a teacher takes the time to observe your movement and provide feedback, it’s a sign that they see something special in you. They recognize your potential and are committed to helping you achieve it.

This level of attention is a mark of respect; it means that your teacher believes in your ability to improve and wants to guide you toward becoming the best dancer you can be.

Shifting Your Perspective

It’s natural to feel a bit defensive or disheartened when you receive a correction, especially if it highlights an area where you’re struggling. But try to shift your perspective. Instead of viewing corrections as a negative judgment, see them as a positive push toward growth. Your teacher isn’t pointing out flaws to discourage you but to help you refine your skills and achieve excellence.

Remember, every dancer—from beginners to professionals—receives corrections. It’s a vital part of the learning process and a sign that you’re being challenged to push beyond your current limits.

Embracing Vulnerability

Taking corrections requires vulnerability. It means being open to change, acknowledging that there’s room for improvement, and trusting that your teacher has your best interests at heart. This vulnerability is not a weakness; it’s a strength. It shows that you are willing to grow, adapt, and evolve as a dancer.

At Lynn Panting Dance, we believe that students do their best work when they feel confident, comfortable, and most like themselves. Embracing corrections is a key part of building that confidence. The more you accept and apply feedback, the more you’ll see progress in your dancing, and the more self-assured you’ll become.

A Pathway to Growth

Corrections are not just about fixing mistakes; they are about fine-tuning your technique, enhancing your performance, and helping you discover new aspects of your artistry. Every correction you receive brings you one step closer to refining a movement or perfecting a routine. It’s through this process of continual adjustment and improvement that you can truly evolve as a dancer.

So, the next time you receive a correction in class, take a deep breath and remind yourself that it’s a gift. Your teacher is investing time and energy into helping you grow because they believe in you.