Embracing the beauty of being real.


To quote Hamilton, "Can I be real a second? For just a millisecond? Let down my guard and tell the people how I feel a second?"


Here is my reality...I have grown to HATE social media. If it weren't for running a business, I wouldn't have a single social media account. I get it, social media can be a fun (and even positive) part of our everyday lives—a space for us to share our highlights, cheer each other on, and find inspiration. But let’s be honest: it can also be quite toxic -- exposing us to negative comments...unsolicited opinions...unrealistic expectations. And, almost universally, it becomes a space where comparison sneaks in and we start to feel "less than".


We hop online to connect, be inspired, and share our love for dance (and dance photography). But somewhere in between the reels, stories, and scrolls, it’s easy to start wondering:


“Why don’t I look like that?”

“Why can’t I do that trick yet?”

“Why does their life seem so perfect?”


To be completely "real a second", that's the main reason that I spend as little time on Social Media as possible. I am a 50-something successful business owner with a beautiful life, years of experience, multiple awards...and I STILL find myself scrolling and feeling like my work isn't good enough, that I'm not as stylish, creative, or "on-trend" as others...being sucked into a downward spiral of comparison. Then, I close the app (with a huff), take a deep breath, and get back to REALITY.


The truth is, what we see online is carefully curated—and those “perfect” posts can make us question our own reflection. Whether it’s body shape, flexibility, strength, lifestyle, or even how aesthetically pleasing someone’s feed is—comparison can sneak in fast. So let’s pull back the curtain on all those polished posts and talk honestly about how social media impacts our confidence, and what we can do to protect our joy and self-worth.

Beyond Body Image


When we think of social media and confidence, most people immediately go to how it impacts body image—and that is a big piece of it, don't get me wrong. But for dancers, the pressure goes even deeper. Do any of these sound familiar:

  • Who can hit the highest extensions
  • Who can do the most turns
  • Who lands the company contract
  • Who's dancing lead this season
  • Who's collaborating with famous photographers
  • Who has the “perfect” bun, outfit, or studio aesthetic


Sometimes we’re not even aware it’s happening—but we feel it in our chest, our gut, or the little voice in our head that whispers, “You’re not quite enough.”


The Polished Illusion


As dancers, you're already surrounded by mirrors, critiques, corrections, and high standards. Add a scroll through a perfectly curated feed, and suddenly self-doubt can start to creep in. Truth is, social media platforms can feel like a never-ending highlight reel -- beautiful arabesques, flawless turns, and sculpted physiques flood our feeds. Let’s be real: we all know that feeds are carefully curated. People post their best angles, their most successful moments, and often, their most filtered selves. What you don’t see are:

  • The 43 takes before that perfect turn sequence
  • The days someone felt like quitting
  • The rejections, injuries, or hard conversations behind the scenes
  • The time and pressure it takes to make their feed look effortless


Remember - it's a highlight reel - the illusion of perfection. We all know the power of filters and editing tools!


Combatting Comparison & Building Self-Acceptance


Let’s talk about how we can shift the way we experience social media, so it supports our self-worth rather than shaking it. Here are a few tips (and a reminder to myself):

  • Unfollow to protect your peace: If an account makes you feel “less than,” it’s okay to hit unfollow. Fill your feed with dancers and creators who celebrate diversity, growth, authenticity, and joy—not just aesthetics.
  • Focus on how you feel, not just how you look: Celebrate what your body does—it leaps, turns, expresses, and supports your dreams. That's what REALLY matters.
  • Build a critical lens: Practice noticing when something looks too perfect. Ask yourself: “Is this edited? Is this a highlight or the full picture?”
  • Remember that every dancer's strengths are different: some are super flexible, some are incredibly strong, others shine with artistry, expression, or stage presence. The beauty of dance is that there’s no one way to be amazing at it, so celebrate the skills that make you unique.
  • Surround yourself with people who lift you up: Whether it’s your dance friends, teachers, or family—your people should make you feel seen, safe, and supported.
  • Take breaks and tune in: Log off when it feels heavy. Spend time journaling, moving without mirrors, or diving into a hobby that has nothing to do with dance.


Be the Realness You Want to See


As dancers, we have the power to shape the dance space online. When you post the sweaty rehearsals, the imperfect tries, the honest captions—you give someone else permission to be real too. Authenticity is powerful. It breaks down pressure, invites connection, and makes room for all kinds of beauty.


Final Thoughts


We live in a digital world—and that’s not going to change anytime soon. But we can change how we engage with it. We can choose authenticity over perfection. We can lift each other up instead of tearing ourselves down. We can pause before we compare—and remind ourselves of everything we do bring to the world, on and off the stage.

  • Your worth isn’t based on likes, follows, or filters.
  • Your body is not your resume.
  • Social media is a scrapbook, not a scorecard.
  • Your journey is worth sharing, not because it's perfect, but because it is yours.
  • There is space vor EVERY kind of dancer in this world - including the real, messy, honest kind. ESPECIALLY that kind.
  • And your value as a dancer? It’s in your heart, your work, your spirit, and your spark.


Now, stop scrolling and remember that you are whole and perfect, just the way you are!!!!!