BACK TO HOME
Published on February 4, 2024
Dear fellow pole dance warriors,
In the captivating world of pole dancing, the artistry, strength, and empowerment we all experience is truly unparalleled. However, behind the mesmerizing spins and gravity-defying tricks lies a unique challenge – the constant juggling act of “having it all.” Balancing pole dancing with a 9-5 job, family, friends, and the financial strain of classes is no easy feat. These classes are fucking expensive. Today, I’m writing to let you know that I feel you. I see you. I hear you. You are not alone. It’s fucking hard. I know I’m not the only one who has heard “how do you have time for all that?”
Here’s just a little snippet of what I am working on day-to-day, and I know there are aerialists out there who are way busier than even I am.
Monday – Friday: Work my regular job 8 AM – 4 PM CST
Stretch & pole prep daily (on my own)
Pole classes at various studios: 4-5 days a week
Writing a novel, currently working on my own edits before sending to another editor
In grad school: for marketing & communications, will graduate in T-minus 10 weeks
Then working on my second master’s degree…oops
In debt
Paying off student loans and those ever important pole classes
Occasionally teaching pole classes at my home studio
Trying to find a part-time job to help me pay for pole dance classes
Fitting in time for friends and family (and keeping the house clean!)
Auditioning for as many shows (burlesque and pole) as I can
The Passion and the Price
Pole dancing is not merely a hobby; it’s a passion that consumes our thoughts and fuels our desire to express ourselves. However, with passion comes a price – both in terms of time and money. The costs of classes, costumes, and accessories can quickly add up, making it challenging to justify the expense alongside the demands of everyday life. The problem is that we know we need it! Practice makes progress, but practice doesn’t come without time, money, or effort.
The 9-5 Grind
For many of us, the reality of a 9-5 job is inescapable. The monotony of the daily grind can leave us yearning for the freedom and creativity found on the pole. Striking a balance between a demanding job and your passion for pole dancing can be mentally and physically draining. Some people are lucky enough to have pole or teaching pole and aerial be their 9-5, which is amazing, but most people aren’t that lucky.
Family & Friends
As much as we adore our pole community, we also have responsibilities beyond the studio. Family and friends play a crucial role in our lives, demanding time and attention that sometimes seems scarce. Explaining the allure of pole dancing to those who might not fully understand can be a challenge in itself. I know I’m not the only one whose friends shy away or really don’t care for the pole dancing and performance scene. They are happy for me, but trying to explain why I love this can be exhausting at times.
Financial Strain
Let’s address the elephant in the room – the financial strain of maintaining a pole dancing lifestyle. Classes, workshops, and competitions come with a hefty price tag, often leaving us questioning whether our passion is sustainable. How do we manage to pursue our love for pole while still meeting our financial obligations?
Final Thoughts & Musings
Dear fellow pole dance enthusiasts, you are not alone in the delicate dance of balancing it all. I just want you to know that I’m with you. You’re not alone. It’s hard to balance it all, it really is.
The struggle is real, and your challenges are valid. It’s crucial to recognize the effort you put into maintaining a harmonious life while pursuing your passion for pole dancing. By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, we can create a supportive community that celebrates the journey, the setbacks, and the triumphs. Keep dancing, keep striving, and remember that your dedication is an inspiration to others who are also striving to find their balance in this captivating world.
With love and pole power,
Violette Vixen
BACK TO HOME