How to stay motivated during your burlesque course
As the summer holidays here start to come to an end, a lot of burlesque courses (including mine!) are getting back in full swing.
It’s really easy to get excited about starting something new. It’s all the buzz and momentum around that first class. You’ve probably got it etched in your diary. You blocked out some space to make sure you got there on time.
But once the initial buzz dies down, sometimes life gets in the way.
You might be enjoying your class, but lots of external stuff makes it feel really hard.
It’s really normal to get into a bit of a slump or to miss a class and feel like “it’s all over” or that you’ve missed out on too much.
So consider this some pre-emptive tips for stopping that mentality before it happens! It’s great to be proactive and to consider what might stop you from doing something you are enjoying - so that you can be prepared!
Remember your why
Simon Sinek really was onto something wasn’t he?
Coming back to your why is a really good starting point if you are wanting to keep up your burlesque practice.
Reminder yourself why you joined in the first place. It could be:
Social activity with a friend or to meet new friends
Gearing up for a stage performance
Improving your confidence or body acceptance
A bit of movement in your week
Whatever your motivation, if you hone in on what has driven and inspired you it will help you find ways to come back to that and remind yourself that your investment in yourself is really important.
Burlesque students at a workshop circa 2021
2. Get yourself some buddies
Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your passion for burlesque. Joining a supportive community can provide you with the encouragement and inspiration you need to stay motivated.
Like many schools, all of my students have access to a private social media group so that you can stay connected with your peers outside of class. Use this to check in or let your new pals know if you need a bit of motivation or boost!
To keep your enthuisiasm it might also be helpful to use social media in a force for good and connect with fellow burlesque students online, or watch other schools and see what they are up to. Seeing other people go through your experience can make you feel less alone, and it can also keep you enthusiastic about why you were keen to join up in the first place!
Friends, Shaan valentine, Grace Cherry and Tiger Lilly post show!
3. Reward yourself
Celebrate your progress and achievements along the way. Treat yourself to something that is meaningful to you.
If you are someone that needs tangible rewards it doesn’t have to be a big lavish purchase - it could be getting a pair of fishnets or sparkly socks for your class. Or treating yourself to a pre class/post class cuppa. Or you could set a long term goal of buying dance shoes or a good quality corset to see that hard work pay off.
Don’t forget a reward doesn’t have to have a price tag. You could also reward yourself with time - maybe watching a burlesque movie or documentary on your own or with a pal. Clear a bit of space and stick up the do not distrurb sign - even if it is half an hour!
Rewarding yourself for your hard work and committing to something is really important to acknowledge that it actually is important to make space for yourself and your interests.
I will always enable shoe purchases!
4. Stay inspired
Surround yourself with inspiration. Watch performances from other burlesque artists, attend shows, read books or articles about burlesque history, and listen to burlesque-themed podcasts. Immerse yourself in the world of burlesque to stay motivated and keep your creative juices flowing.
But also…. here’s the thing. Take a break if you need it. I will be the first to say (but probably never DO myself!!!!) that you do need to listen to your body and mind. If you're feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, don't hesitate to take a break. It’s okay to have a week off if you are really feeling the life pull. I can’t think of any teacher who would say that you have missed out and tell you not to come back! We all get it - have a week off, rest and recharge, and come back to your burlesque course with renewed energy and motivation.
In any situation I would always say, don’t beat yourself up if plans don’t work out perfectly. But hopefully a few tips to keep you focused helps. As we get into adulthood it sometimes seems like doing something - whether it’s a burlesque class or painting or going to the gym - is frivolous; But I just witness every week how important it is to have some mental space for YOU. Not just you the partner, the worker, the sibling etc….
But to put some time into yourself as your own autonomous human self and to carve out time for some joy - then you generally have bit more in the tank to give back to others.