Feel the burn…
by Devon on Feb.03, 2009, under Career Advice, Exotic Dancers, Identity
Scotty asked me this weekend how I avoid burnout. I’ve talked about this in a couple postings already (click here, click here, or click here), but I’ve not gone into much beyond the advice that you should take time off. I’ve mentioned driving through the mountains. Stuff like that.
But I’ve enjoyed a longevity in this career, because of a particular advantage I have: I am a dancer. When I make the statement, “I am a dancer,” that is the same declaration of identity as saying “I am White, ” “I am a man,” “I am American,” “I am gay,” or “I am Devon.” Dance is my life. True, I have artistic endeavors (which I would share with you if YouTube weren’t so damned pissy – I still can’t get my videos uploaded). But I am a performer at heart. I am getting paid to do what I enjoy. This cannot be underestimated enough.
I’m not saying that only those who identify as dancers will have longevity. I simply make the point that truly enjoying what you do will help you keep in better perspective. If you are going to work in adult entertainment you are going to have to connect with it on some kind of personal level. The degree to which you do this can be determined only by you; however, (as I have said repeatedly) if you do not like what you are doing, it doesn’t matter what your career is.
Make time for yourself, be at peace with what you do, and enjoy yourself.
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February 3rd, 2009 on 1:13 pm
It seems to be that labeling yourself also enlivens yourself and gives you the energy to keep going. Either way, keep dancing.
February 3rd, 2009 on 1:13 pm
You are fortunate to be doing something you really enjoy. That problem makes you a minority in this society. I have been working for 22 1/2 years and the longest vacation I have had is two weeks. I think this year I am going to try to break that pattern. I am finding that my life is becoming a grind working 9+ hours a day on 4-6 hours of sleep a night. Not a good recipe for mental health.
February 3rd, 2009 on 1:15 pm
“That probably”! I wish could edit. Last night it was 3 1/2 hours sleep, thus the typo.
February 3rd, 2009 on 5:40 pm
brady: it’s an irony that labeling can be seen from two totally different angles… often people will say, “i hate labels!” “labels are limiting!” “labels can’t identify me!” while that is true, it can also be said that labesl have exists as long as they have, because on some levels they DO help us. the abuse of labels is what is harmful, but without labels how would we talk about ourselves? everyone would simply be mushed into the category “exists.” how gray… ick!