RSF BLOG

I was talking to a friend today who was feeling a little discouraged about her dancing. She said something like, “I just started too late in my life… I would’ve been so much better if I’d started in my youth! I’m never going to be a champion, or as good as so-and-so…” You get the idea- this is someone who feels cheated because her body isn’t cooperating with her dreams of what she thinks she could have been….

I think we can relate: I’m not as flexible as I used to be, my body can’t take as much abuse as it used to, and my feet have issues! But do I think it’s too late? Yes- if my goal was to dance like I am 20! But if I look at it as, “Is it too late to be the best dancer I can be, starting right now?” The answer is ‘It’s never too late!’

I think the problem comes from people looking at and comparing themselves to professionals and amateurs who’ve literally been dancing/training since they were toddlers. Quit comparing yourself to others!!! Even if your instructor dances the same routine with you and three other girls, you will have your own unique style and strengths that won’t be the same as the others’. One of my favorite quotes recently is “Be a first-rate version of yourself instead of a second- rate copy of someone else.” (Judy Garland).

Yes, it may be too late for my friend to dance like Karina Smirnoff or DWTS cutie, Julianne Hough, but does that mean she should just pack up her shoes and turn in her rhinestoned costumes? What do you think? Is it ever really just too late? Think about it….and leave a reply!

By Regina Ruff, your pro-am voice
ABI writer