Friday, 11 July 2014

Journal Entry

Though reflecting has helped me as well. Right now I feel like I have just achieved a mile-stone having done my first perfromance after 6-7 months on and off dance. Although a bit uncertain how my foot would cope, I am quite glad I have taken that leap of faith and just did it.



I think it’s the fact that I have been given this opportunity to show myself, almost a reward for keeping on gooing through this whole bumpy ride. Even though my foot still needs time to heal fully, there is not point in waiting more and not giving it a good try.
And you know what…even though it was all a little shaky from the nerves and very few rehearsals, My foot and myself pulled through !

It shows that some sort sort of recogntion and certainty has helped me get over this ‘obstacle.’ Although I have a little more healing to do and to complete my last stage of rehab and strengthening, I have a direction to work towards. And because of that my foot actually is feeling better and stronger every day ! I now feel more mentally prepared, and motivated to keep on pushing forward.

My discovery on what helps
·      Positivity
·      Plan to follow
·      Reassurance and certainty
·      Support from friends and family

·      Ways to work around problems, other options

Sunday, 6 July 2014

Investigating deeper...

I was pleased to find out I can continue with my project from the inquiry feedback. However what ‘threw me back’ a little was the fact that my inquiry is still too broad :

What inspires a professional ballet dancer to pursue the feeling of enjoyment and fulfillment when dancing?
What are the motivational factors that keep them going through the hardships of the professional ballet industry?

Skyping Paula cleared a lot out for me where we discussed that I can still stick to the main idea of motivation, and defintitely keeping the passion side going. But one word stood out- obstacles.
*How to perhaps overcome the obstacles professional ballet dancers  experience ? Rehearsals, class and onstage ?
*How do they motivate themselves to work through these obstacles/challenges ?

The documentary of New York City Ballet by Sarah Jessica Parker shows an insight into the different sectors as a ballet dancer where dancers face castings, auditioning, rankings, injuries, performances. This series has given me inspiration to look further into what might drive a ballet dancer to overcome his/her obstacles within a ballet company and its different rankings/stages . I too would like to find these answers, and a balance between all.


Reviewing literature will help direct me towards a clearer and more specific topic, which I plan to do with a few books I have just ordered : 
Dancer’s Manual http://www.amazon.com/Dancers-Manual-Motivational-Professional-Dancing/dp/0963786490