Goal Setting in Dance: Why, What, and How.
Goal setting in dance For dancers at any level, setting goals is a powerful practice that builds habits paving the way for long-term success. Goals provide direction and purpose, foster self-awareness, and inspire dancers to pursue their dreams. By understanding the benefits of goal-setting, how to establish achievable goals, and how to handle setbacks, dancers can make well-informed decisions to thrive in their dance journey.
Intermediate/Advance barre work
Why Set Goals in Dance?
Dance requires passion, dedication, patience, and continuous learning. Without proper goals, it’s easy to feel lost or burned out. Goal-setting helps dancers:
Stay focused – Clearly defining what you want to achieve keeps training efficient and purposeful.
Measure progress – Goals provide tangible benchmarks to track improvement.
Boost confidence – Achieving milestones builds self-esteem and reinforces a sense of purpose.
Increase motivation – Clear objectives keep dancers engaged and excited about growth.
Develop discipline – Goals promote commitment and consistency in practice.
Intermediate dancers at SDC
Types of Dance Goals
Dancers can set two main types of goals, often used in combination. Short-term goals act as stepping stones to achieve long-term ambitions.
1. Short-Term Goals - These are small, actionable steps that contribute to long-term success. Examples include:
Mastering a new technical element or move
Practicing leadership skills in class
Enhancing performance and facial expressions
Improving flexibility through daily stretching
Perfecting posture and balance
Advanced Dancers in Contemporary class.
2. Long-Term Goals – These are broader objectives that require months or years to achieve. Examples include:
Mastering a particular dance style
Starting a dance company
Pursuing dance as a viable career
Becoming a professional dancer or instructor
Sustaining dance as a lifelong practice for joy and well-being
How to Set Effective Dance Goals
Intermediate Ballet students working on front attitude.
The SMART goal-setting framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) helps dancers align their goals with their authentic desires and abilities.
Instructors play a vital role in your child’s dance education, so it’s essential to choose a studio with skilled, experienced teachers who understand child development and correct technique. Look for instructors with professional dance experience or a solid educational background in dance. Many studios list their instructors’ credentials on their websites, which can give insight into their qualifications.
1. Specific - Clearly define your goal.
Example: “Improve my turns by being able to consistently perform a double pirouette.”
2. Measurable - Create a way to track progress.
Example: “I will be able to consistently land double pirouettes.”
3. Achievable – Set goals appropriate for your current skill level.
Example: If you are new to ballet, focusing on reaching retiré from fourth position may be more practical than attempting full pirouettes right away.
4. Relevant – Choose goals that align with your dance aspirations.
Example: If a company you want to audition for requires a double pirouette, this goal is highly relevant to your progress.
5. Time-bound – Set a deadline to stay accountable.
Example: "I will be able to consistently land double pirouettes within one month."
Important reminders
Advanced Contemporary dancer Kaity.
Setbacks are a normal part of working toward goals. Whether it's injury, lack of motivation, or slower progress than expected, keep these tips in mind:
Be patient – Improvement takes time. Celebrate both victories and setbacks. Be gentle with yourself and listen to your body. Sometimes taking a break helps you return stronger.
Seek inspiration and support – Look to someone who has achieved a goal similar to yours. Their journey can remind you that challenges are part of the growth process.
Adjust goals if needed – Redefining your goals is a sign of growth. Breaking a goal into smaller, manageable steps doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it shows you’re gaining awareness and understanding of the path to success.
Conclusion
Goal-setting in dance transforms how dancers approach their development and aspirations. Whether it's improving performance or building confidence, setting effective goals creates habits that lead to success both on and off the dance floor. These curated steps not only help dancers achieve their dreams but also become guiding principles throughout life’s broader journey.
Reflection Questions
What is one short-term and one long-term goal you can set today to support your dance growth?
What specific steps can you take this week to move closer to achieving your goals?
How will you measure and celebrate your progress to stay motivated and engaged?
Anna Weissand in ‘Sylvia’
