My mind is often clouded with thoughts of where I want to be in the future. I set big goals for myself and even though I know it’s illogical, I often find myself discouraged with goals I haven’t reached and become restless.

It happens to everyone of course, but sometimes I dwell too long on thoughts of what kind of an Irish dancer I want to be someday. The fact that I haven’t reached my full potential can bring me down when practicing. I get frustrated when I can’t keep my stamina going the entire dance, when I fail to keep my feet turned out, or when I can’t pound out the beats as vigorously as I’d like.

This can create a huge problem when I dance. If I spend too much time thinking about the kind of dancer I have not yet become, I am making an unfair comparison. Even though I’m giving my best effort, my lack of confidence will bring me down and cause me to dance worst that I am actually able.

When dancing, it is extremely important to be aware that without a confidence in your own ability to perform well, your dancing is only half as good as it could be. When I practice with a positive attitude, understanding that I am doing the best I can, I often surprise myself at what I already can do as an Irish dancer. My leaps are stronger, my feet more precise, and most importantly I’m having fun doing it!

Everyone must have confidence in the dancer they have already become. I find myself learning this same lesson over and over. It is wonderful to set goals for the future, but it is equally important to enjoy yourself along the way. The greatest part of any goal is the journey to achieving it.

See hundreds of Irish dance photos by Shelly Hathaway: Click Here

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