It’s the same scenario at every competition. There are a lot of amateurs standing in lines waiting to strut their stuff on the dance floor. There is a group of 5 to 7 pros with clipboards or iPads waiting to give their opinion on what the amateur does. And at the end of the day or the weekend, someone goes home with the prize and someone is disappointed; disappointed that they didn’t dance their best, that they had a mistake, or that they didn’t place where they should have, or didn’t place at all. The ams then go back to their pros and ask for an explanation. All we can do is tell them what we think. We can’t read the judges minds, and we only know by experience how certain people judge. We don’t always have the answer.
There is always judging in any type of dancing that you do – whether it be by the audience, or by reviewers, or by actual judges. The thing to always remember is that every judgment is subjective. It’s one person’s opinion. As much as the judges can look at technique, timing, and (in terms of routines) composition, there will always be the variable judgment of styling and personal taste. You always have to remember that it’s not just about the winning or the placing. Competitions should be used to help you reach your goals……”I am going to be able to do x, y, and z before this event.” “I want to feel like I’m comfortable in a certain level at this event.” You can use competitions to gauge your progress, but don’t just look at your placements. You need to compare how you dance at one competition to how you dance at the next.
Does it feel good to win? Yes. Do we want to win? Yes. Is it ok to be disappointed that you didn’t win or place?? Yes. The point is not to get wrapped up in it, and not to take it too personally or too seriously. It is important to use the disappointment to better yourself and your dancing. Take the opportunity to find out what you can improve upon and make it happen, so there is no question that you are the best one on the floor! Make sure you listen to those that you trust and admire, and take the advice that you know is right.
Always remember, that not placing in a competition is not the end of the world. A good placement can be a sign that you are getting better, it can be a confidence booster, it can be something to be proud of, but never forget, the important thing is to improve and love what you are doing!! It’s about the dancing, the music, and the fun!!
