Balancing motherhood and a professional life is a journey filled with highs and lows, but it’s one that brings immense gratitude. As a dance teacher in Munich and a mother, I’ve learned to appreciate the small victories and challenges alike. Finding harmony between these two important parts of my life has become a source of deep fulfillment.

Grateful for the Challenge of Focus

Staying focused on work while caring for a little one isn’t always easy, but it’s a challenge that I’ve come to embrace with gratitude. There are days when my attention is divided between teaching ballet classes in Munich and meeting the needs of my daughter. In those moments, I remind myself of the privilege it is to be able to pursue my passion for dance while also raising a child.

Being present in the moment, whether during a ballet lesson or a family activity, has become a practice that brings me closer to both my students and my family. This approach allows me to fully appreciate the joys of both motherhood and my professional life.

Grateful for the Freedom to Travel and Explore

One of the greatest gifts of self-employment is the flexibility it offers, particularly when it comes to travel. Despite the complexities of managing work and family life, my family and I have been fortunate enough to continue enjoying our kind of holidays—active, adventurous, and full of discovery.

This year, our travels took us through the stunning landscapes of Italy, from Emilia-Romagna and Lago d’Iseo to Tuscany, Parma, Trento, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, and Lake Garda. These trips reminded me that even though motherhood changes your life, it doesn’t mean you have to give up the things you love. I’m grateful for the opportunity to create memories with my family while staying active and exploring new places together.

Grateful for the Flexibility of Self-Employment

Being self-employed in the dance world comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to financial stability. However, the flexibility it provides is something I’m incredibly thankful for. Running my dance lessons in Munich allows me to create a schedule that works for both my family and my passion for ballet.

Though there are uncertainties—like the occasional no-show at a ballet class or an unexpected doctor’s appointment—each day ends with a feeling of gratitude. Even on the toughest days, when I fall into bed exhausted, I’m thankful that I made it through. The exhaustion wears off, replaced by a sense of pride and joy in having managed my work, made my child happy, and handled the countless little tasks that fill my day.

As I reflect on the day’s challenges, a brief moment of uncertainty might creep in—what will tomorrow bring? A doctor’s appointment? A call from the Kita? Too many no-shows at a ballet class? But this uncertainty quickly transforms into a feeling of curiosity. I remind myself that I made it through today, and I know I’ll find a way to master tomorrow as well.

Inspiring Young Dancers with Gratitude

We all have our struggles and burdens in life. I have mine, and I’m certain that others might even face bigger ones. But maybe my story can serve as a bit of inspiration for you as you navigate your own challenges. If I can make it through a hard day, juggling the demands of motherhood and my work as a dance teacher, then so can you.

To my young dancers, I know you face your own challenges with school, dance, and the expectations placed on you. Ballet is a demanding art form, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Every challenge you encounter is an opportunity to grow and develop, not only as a dancer but as a person. Even on the hardest days, when you feel exhausted or unsure of what the next day will bring, be grateful for the progress you’ve made. The sense of accomplishment that comes from overcoming challenges is something to cherish.

Final Thoughts: Grateful for the Journey

Managing the demands of motherhood and a professional life isn’t always easy, but it’s a journey filled with moments of gratitude. As a dance teacher in Munich, I’m thankful for the opportunity to share my passion for ballet while also raising my daughter. This journey has taught me to appreciate the little things and to find joy in the interplay between work and family.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can inspire other mothers and young dancers to embrace their challenges with gratitude and to find joy in their unique paths.

With Love,

Harriet xxx