5 Things I’d Tell My Younger Dancer Self
When I graduated from PT school in 2017, I thought, “That’s it. No more dancing.”
I told myself it was time to be an adult, focus on my career, and let go of the dream I once had — training in New York City and performing on Broadway.
I took two years off with hardly any dance. Without opportunities to move and express, my life felt dull and empty — like something vital was missing.
Little did I know that in my late 20’s, I’d discover a new dance style and dance community that would reignite my soul: salsa. 💃 At the same time, I decided to combine my career as a PT with my passion for dance.
Now, in my 30’s, I’m dancing, performing, and teaching at a higher level than ever before. I never in a million years could have imagined this and feel grateful every day. ✨
5 Things I’d Tell My Younger Dancer Self
1️⃣ Validate yourself
Don’t wait for a teacher, coach, or team to see your worth. You don’t need anyone’s permission to keep dancing or call yourself a dancer.
2️⃣ Time will not run out
There’s no expiration date on your passion. You can start, restart, or keep going at any age — you just have to care for your body along the way.
3️⃣ Consistency beats talent
Natural talent can give someone a head start, but it’s consistency that creates real growth over time. Stay curious. Stay humble. Keep showing up — that’s how you become great. As Bruce Lee once said, “Long-term consistency trumps short-term intensity” every. day. of the week.
4️⃣ Life will get in the way — dance anyway
Most people let their dreams go when life gets busy. Even if it’s messy or imperfect, keep dancing. It will carry you through hard seasons — and you never know where it will lead.
5️⃣ You will inspire others
One day, your resilience and passion will spark someone else’s. Your story will show them it’s never too late to follow what sets their soul on fire.
Dance is a lifelong journey. Whether you’re just starting out or rediscovering your passion later in life, combining strength training for dancers, dance flexibility training, and guidance from dance physical therapy can help you perform at your best, stay injury-free, and keep growing.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you’re never too late to grow, improve, and keep dancing. That’s exactly why I created Strong Dancer Coaching — to give dancers the strength, rehab, and mobility tools I wish I had in my 20’s. So you can keep showing up for the art you love, at any age.
