Top Reasons Not To Be A “Try Hard” In Dance & Why It Matters
At Haus of Glass Dance, we believe that every dancer, regardless of their level or aspirations, deserves recognition and appreciation for their dedication to the art form. When it comes to recreational dance, there exists a spectrum of individuals who approach their passion with varying degrees of commitment and enthusiasm. Once a dancer chooses to take their passion to the next level, there exists a clear distinction between individuals who are truly dedicated, hard workers and those who could be labeled as "try hards." At Haus, we want to share the differences between these types and the significant role they play in shaping dancer’s journey and ultimate success.
Once a dancer chooses to take their passion to the next level, there exists a clear distinction between individuals who are truly dedicated, hard workers and those who could be labeled as "try hards."
For many recreational dancers, the joy of dance lies in the moments spent in the studio, moving to the rhythm and expressing themselves through movement. These individuals may not have the time or resources to dedicate extra hours to additional classes, and that's perfectly okay. Their love for dance is evident in their presence and enthusiasm during each session, and even if they don’t desire to or cannot practice choreography outside of class their commitment to showing up and giving their best effort during classes is commendable. Each step they take and each move they learn is a testament to their dedication to their craft. In the realm of recreational dance, the focus is on enjoyment and personal growth rather than competition or performance readiness. Recreational dancers embrace the challenges of learning new things and refining their skills with a sense of adventure and curiosity. They should understand that progress takes time and effort, as they approach their dance journey with a spirit of exploration and discovery.
Now, for dancers wanting to “level up” in the dance world, whether that means making it a career, by gigging, choreographing or teaching, or by taking it to a performance or competitive level. There is a pretty distinct line between those that truly make the most out of their short time dancing with hard work and those that try to look like hard workers.
Hard workers are the ones who go above and beyond the minimum requirements. They are the individuals who dedicate extra hours to their craft, by attending additional classes outside of regular rehearsals. These dancers understand the value of continuous improvement and strive to enhance their skills consistently.
One key trait of hard workers is their commitment to practicing outside of the studio. They diligently review choreography at home and engage in strength, flexibility, and technique training exercises from dance class on their own time. This extra effort not only hones their abilities but also demonstrates their unwavering dedication to their art.
In contrast, "try hards" tend to limit their efforts to the confines of the studio. They adhere to the minimum requirements and often shy away from putting in additional work outside of scheduled classes.
This approach can hinder their growth and development as aspiring dancers, as they miss out on valuable opportunities for improvement. Hard workers exhibit a positive and observant attitude towards their training. They actively seek feedback, internalize corrections, and diligently practice to refine their skills. These dancers embrace challenges without complaint, understanding that overcoming obstacles is an integral part of their journey towards excellence.
On the other hand, "try hards" may display a tendency to complain and criticize, both in and outside of class. While some may be quick to point out flaws in others, they often overlook their own areas for improvement. This mindset can create a barrier to growth and hinder their progress as dancers. Another true essence of a hard worker is seen in how they shine on stage. These dancers exude confidence and fearlessness, having poured their focus, energy, and passion into every rehearsal. Their dedication and preparation culminate in a performance that is polished, precise, and impactful.
In contrast, "try hards" may struggle to deliver a stellar performance on stage. Their lack of consistent effort and commitment during rehearsals can result in exhaustion and confusion when attempting to give their all during a performance. This highlights the importance of sustained dedication and focus in achieving excellence in higher dance.
At Haus of Glass Dance, we emphasize the value of dance training as a holistic experience that extends beyond the studio walls. We want to continuously motivate our dancers to understand that their dedication to dance not only enhances their technical abilities but also cultivates essential life skills such as professionalism, work ethic, stamina, and confidence. By embodying the traits of a hard worker – dedication, perseverance, positivity, and a growth mindset – dancers…well, everyone can elevate their performance, enrich their lives, and inspire others through their passion, commitment and drive.
