End of Summer: A Fresh Start for Dancers and Teachers

We spend so much time looking forward to summer—the long days, the sunshine, the chance to unwind with family and friends. But in the blink of an eye, it’s over. As we say goodbye to those carefree days, the weight of returning to normal routines starts to creep in. For dancers, this means gearing up for another season—getting back into shape, leaving loved ones behind again, and preparing for the challenges that a new school year or company season may bring. I remember those feelings well.

There’s a sense of bittersweet anticipation that always comes with the start of something new. But it’s also exciting: new teachers, new roles, new skills to unlock. It’s a time for growth and learning, and while it may feel overwhelming at first, it’s full of potential.

Summer for dancer, mother 6 teacher

Returning to the Studio: Mixed Emotions as a Teacher

Now, as a teacher, I find myself experiencing those same mixed emotions when it’s time to return to my work after a break. Being a freelance dance teacher brings its own set of challenges. It feels like a new beginning each time I step back into the studio, an opportunity to grow, discover new teaching methods, and help my students develop their own skills. But alongside the excitement, there’s always a lingering uncertainty.

Freelancing means relying on others to keep my work and income going, which can be stressful. There’s also the constant effort of getting myself known and staying visible in the dance community. And, like many of you, I’m also balancing the demands of family life. Being a new mum, a wife, and a teacher requires a delicate balancing act, and sometimes it feels like I’m being pulled in too many directions.

But here’s the thing—these challenges are part of the journey. And with each new season, I’m reminded that they are opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally.

Embracing the Transition: A Time for Growth

As we all prepare to return to our routines, I encourage you to take a moment to acknowledge your feelings—whether it’s nervousness, excitement, or a mix of both. These emotions are valid, and they are part of what makes this time of year so special.

It’s natural to feel some anxiety about the unknown, but try to embrace the idea that anything is possible. We have the power to influence how the return to routine unfolds, and how we approach it will shape the season ahead. Let’s use the energy of those long, beautiful summer days to push us through the colder, darker months with positivity and determination.

Moving Forward with a Summer Mindset

As I look ahead, I feel a sense of appreciation for the opportunities that I have had and that are coming—for the chance to combine my dance career with teaching, for the continuous support of my family, and for the resilience that has helped me navigate the ups and downs in the past and that will help me face the ones to come in freelance life. I know that challenges will come, but with a determined mindset and a focus on what I can control, I feel ready to tackle them.

Ballet dancer & teacher in studio

To my fellow dancers and teachers, as we step back into our routines, let’s approach this time with a positive outlook. Embrace the new roles, the new skills, and the opportunities this season brings. When challenges arise, face them head-on, knowing that each one is a chance to grow and learn.

Here’s to a fresh start and a fulfilling season ahead—one filled with growth, joy, and plenty of dancing.

With love,

Harriet xx

Gratefulness in the Dance: Navigating Motherhood and Ballet with Joy

Strolling with my little one through Siena

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

“Living in a World Such as this is Like Dancing on a Live Volcano.”

An exciting and sudden opportunity came my way, just as I thought a quiet three week rest was what I needed

IMG_20190618_135828
Not often such a calm moment in the ballet world

There is never a dull moment, even during my lazy summer holidays. One week in and finally enjoying some days off with my family in London, looking forward to the next two weeks of summer, a phone call changed all my plans.

❝I had NO pointe shoes❞

Just as we were sitting down for a coffee my phone rang, flashing my previous employer’s name, Birgit Keil. ‘Mum Frau Keil is calling me’. Just seeing her name on my phone suggested something was going on and something was definitely about to happen.

IMG_20190727_232806
Weekend away in London with my family

Upon answering she told me all about the big dilemma she was in regarding a ballet gala in Japan and how desperate she was to find a dancer to replace someone who had suddenly dropped out at the last minute. Hence the call to me – trusty Harriet. Continue reading ““Living in a World Such as this is Like Dancing on a Live Volcano.””