Stop Comparing, Start Soaring: 3 Steps to Boosting Confidence in Aerial Arts
As beginners and intermediate students, you embark on a journey that is as much about self-discovery as it is about learning new skills. One of the biggest challenges you might face along this path is not just mastering the technical aspects of aerial arts but building and maintaining self-confidence. In today’s blog, we'll delve into the psychological facets of confidence, the impact of social media, and the importance of embracing individuality in our unique circus community.
The Impact of Self-Comparison:
Self-comparison, especially in an era dominated by social media, can be a double-edged sword. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are flooded with images and videos of aerialists performing breathtaking stunts with apparent ease. While these can be sources of inspiration, they can also inadvertently set unrealistic standards and fuel feelings of inadequacy. According to social comparison theory, individuals determine their own social and personal worth based on how they stack up against others. This can lead to a focus on shortcomings rather than appreciating personal progress.
Even I am not immune to the comparison trap due to social media, and I have had to curate my feed to help me avoid these feelings. My tactics is that I just go onto the explore page to try and get some inspiration, and kept my performing friends to support and a few artists from Cirque du Soleil for entertainment. I personally still struggle with my own dissonance of wanting to be a high performing circus athlete when I was younger and who I became instead. It can mess up with my own mental health and sense of self-worth, which means that I have to do what works for me to avoid it impacting me negatively. This is more my own tactic, but it is important to recognise the signs and manage them when you can feel yourself falling into the comparison trap.
To combat the adverse effects of self-comparison, shift your focus from others to yourself. Concentrate on your personal progress, no matter how incremental. Remember, every aerialist started somewhere, and every journey is unique. Using others' achievements as inspiration rather than benchmarks for your own progress can transform comparison from a source of stress into a tool for motivation.
Understanding Confidence in Aerial Arts
Confidence in aerial arts isn’t just about believing you can perform a specific move; it’s about trusting in your overall ability to grow, learn, and face challenges. It’s normal to experience fear, especially when trying new and potentially dangerous maneuvers. However, confidence helps in managing this fear, not eliminating it. It allows you to approach your training with a mindset that is open to learning and growth, even in the face of difficulty.
Approaching your aerial training with an open and growth-oriented mindset is key. It’s about understanding that each session, each attempt, even those that don’t go as planned, are integral steps in your learning process. It’s vital to remember that your aerial journey is uniquely yours. Comparing your progress to others’ or setting unrealistic expectations based on someone else’s journey can be counterproductive.
An important aspect of personal growth in this field is learning to leave your ego at the door. Ego can often be a barrier to learning, leading you to push beyond safe limits or feel discouraged when progress doesn’t come as quickly as you’d like. The art of aerial performance is as much about physical skill as it is about mental resilience and patience. Understanding and accepting that progress takes time is crucial. Each individual’s journey in aerial arts is different, and there’s immense beauty in that diversity.
Your progression in aerial arts should be a reflection of your personal growth, both physically and mentally. Embracing patience, acknowledging your fears, and committing to a mindset of continuous learning and self-improvement will steadily build your confidence. Remember, every aerialist was once a beginner, and every expert has a story of gradual progress marked by patience and perseverance.
Three important ways to build confidence
Consistent practice is key in building not just technical skills but also confidence. Each session you complete, every small improvement you make, contributes to a growing sense of competence and self-assurance. It's important to recognize and celebrate these small victories, no matter how trivial they may seem. Whether it's holding a pose a second longer, achieving a smoother transition, or even just overcoming the initial fear of trying something new, each of these moments is significant. They are not just achievements but also tangible reminders of your progress and resilience. These small, incremental victories collectively build a foundation of confidence that will support your continued growth and development in aerial arts.
The circus community is diverse and inclusive, celebrating the uniqueness of each body and journey. This environment is one where individual differences are not just accepted but embraced as strengths. Surround yourself with supportive peers and mentors who encourage your growth and respect your individuality. In this community, every person's unique path is valued, creating a space where learning and self-expression flourish. A positive community can act as a buffer against the negative impacts of self-comparison and competition, fostering a sense of belonging and support. It’s within this nurturing atmosphere that aerialists can truly thrive, as the collective energy and encouragement of the group uplifts each individual. Together, you can create an environment that not only supports personal achievements but also celebrates them, making the aerial arts journey a shared and joyful experience.
Setbacks are an inevitable part of any learning process, especially in a field as challenging as aerial arts. It's essential to understand that these setbacks are not indicators of failure but rather stepping stones to greater mastery. Instead of viewing them as hindrances, embrace them as opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow. Each challenge you encounter and overcome adds a layer to your skillset and fortifies your mental toughness. Developing resilience – the ability to bounce back from setbacks – is crucial in your aerial journey. This resilience is more than just recovering; it's about using each experience as a catalyst for improvement. Building this kind of resilience is a core component of developing lasting confidence. It enables you to approach each session with a mindset that is undeterred by obstacles and open to exploration, experimentation, and ultimately, progression. Remember, the path to aerial expertise is rarely linear; it's filled with ups and downs, each teaching valuable lessons and contributing to your overall growth as an aerialist.
Building self-confidence in the aerial arts is a journey that goes beyond the physical aspects of the discipline. It involves nurturing a positive mindset, engaging in consistent practice, and creating a supportive community. Remember, every aerialist has their own unique story, and comparing your chapter one to someone else’s chapter twenty does not serve your journey. Embrace your individuality, celebrate your progress, and let your confidence grow as you continue to explore the beautiful world of aerial arts.
We’d love to hear about your journey in building confidence in aerial arts. Share your experiences in the comments below, and if you’re looking for structured guidance, don't forget to check out our upcoming program, The Aerialist's Starter Toolkit, relaunching this January. Sign up now to receive an exclusive pre-launch discount and join us in celebrating the diversity and strength of our aerial community.
