We all know that a career as a circus artist is full of creativity and excitement—but it’s not without its challenges. Whether you’re into acrobatics, juggling, clowning, or aerial arts, each path comes with its own unique twists and turns. To navigate this thrilling yet competitive field, setting clear goals and planning strategically are essential. Whether you’re just starting your journey or Striving to take your career to new heights, having goals keeps you growing and moving forward. In this article, we’ll share practical tips and strategies to help you define, chase, and achieve your professional dreams as a circus artist.
Understanding the Importance of Goal-Setting for Circus Artists
Creating Your Roadmap
Setting goals is like creating your personal roadmap in the world of circus arts. It’s what helps you steer through an industry that can be as unpredictable as your next performance. By having clear objectives, you can track your progress, make tweaks along the way, and keep pushing forward, even when things don’t go as planned. This structure is what keeps you on track and motivated, especially during those tougher moments.
Staying Motivated and Focused
Having clear career goals can be a game-changer for staying motivated and focused. When you know exactly what you’re aiming for—whether it’s nailing that new trick or landing a high-profile gig—it’s easier to stay committed. And let’s be honest, we all have those days when motivation dips. That’s when your goals remind you why you started and help keep that spark alive.
Keeping Up with Industry Trends
The circus world is constantly evolving with new styles, technology, and audience expectations. Regular goal-setting helps you stay current by pushing you to learn and adapt. Whether it’s integrating new performance techniques or mastering emerging disciplines, having a set of evolving goals ensures your skills remain sharp and in demand.
Assessing Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Taking a Good Look at Where You Stand
The first step to setting realistic goals is to take a good, honest look at yourself. Where do you stand with your skills right now? Are you naturally skilled in aerial work or do you have a flair for comedy? Think about your strengths and where you shine, but also pinpoint areas where you could use some extra training or support. A self-check like this lays the foundation for setting goals that make sense and are achievable.
Seeking Feedback from Trusted Peers
Sometimes, you need a little outside perspective. Reach out to mentors or fellow performers for their feedback. They might see strengths or areas for improvement that you hadn’t considered. This kind of input can give you more clarity and help you fine-tune your goals. Plus, mentors bring experience and insight that can be invaluable as you map out your next moves.
Targeting Areas for Growth
Once you know your strengths, it’s time to work on those areas that could use a boost. Maybe you’re a great acrobat but want to add more flair to your routine with juggling or clowning. Expanding your skillset not only makes you more versatile but also opens up new opportunities in performances that require multi-talented artists.
Setting SMART Goals for Circus Success
What Are SMART Goals Anyway?
When it comes to setting goals, the SMART framework can be your best friend. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These aren’t just buzzwords—they’re what make your goals more practical and easier to track. By breaking your dreams down into SMART goals, you create a clear plan you can actually stick to, making it way more likely you’ll hit those milestones.
Balancing Long-Term and Short-Term Goals
Think of your goals as a mix of short-term steps and big long-term aspirations. Maybe your ultimate goal is to join a world-famous circus troupe. What can you do in the short term to get there? Attend more auditions, take advanced workshops, or network with industry pros. These smaller steps build your momentum and keep you moving in the right direction.
Examples of SMART Goals for Circus Performers
- Specific: “I want to join a professional circus troupe as an aerialist within the next two years.”
- Measurable: “I will apply to at least 10 auditions over the next six months.”
- Achievable: “I’ll attend two aerial workshops this year to improve my skills.”
- Relevant: “This goal aligns with my passion for aerial arts and desire to perform professionally.”
- Time-bound: “I will master three new aerial routines by the end of this year.”
Building a Support System
Finding the Right Mentor
A good mentor can make all the difference in your career. Whether they’re an experienced performer or someone who’s achieved goals similar to yours, mentors can offer guidance, feedback, and valuable connections. Don’t be afraid to reach out; most seasoned performers are happy to share what they’ve learned.
Accountability Partners
Share your goals with friends, colleagues, or even a fellow performer who can keep you accountable. Having someone to check in with regularly can keep you on track and motivated. Plus, celebrating wins with someone who understands your world makes the journey more enjoyable.
Joining Circus Communities
Connect with professional organizations and online communities like CircusTalk or the American Circus Educators Association. These networks are goldmines for resources, job opportunities, and support. Engaging with a community helps you learn from others, exchange tips, and stay updated on industry trends.
Never Stop Learning
Investing in Advanced Training
Keep pushing your boundaries by enrolling in advanced courses or workshops. Schools like École nationale de Cirque or Circus Center offer specialized programs that can refine your technique and expose you to new styles. Continuous learning is key to staying competitive and excited about your craft.
Setting Milestones in Training
Practice is essential, but having training milestones can make it more rewarding. Maybe you set a mini-goal to master a new trick or build more stamina. These small wins build up to your bigger career aspirations and give you tangible progress to celebrate.
Adding New Skills to Your Repertoire
Want to stand out even more? Learn some secondary skills that complement your main act. If you’re an acrobat, why not try adding clowning or dance to your toolkit? The more versatile you are, the more doors open up for different types of gigs.
Creating Your Personal Brand
What Makes You Unique?
Your style is what sets you apart. Whether it’s your performance aesthetic, your storytelling, or your signature moves, define what makes you you. A strong personal brand not only makes you memorable but also helps you attract more high-profile gigs and build a loyal following.
Crafting a Portfolio That Pops
Your portfolio should showcase your best work. Include a polished showreel, an updated resume, and testimonials that highlight your strengths. Make sure it’s visually appealing and easy to navigate so casting directors can see what you bring to the table.
Using Social Media Wisely
Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok aren’t just for fun—they’re tools to showcase your talent and build your brand. Regularly share updates, training moments, and performance highlights. Engage with your followers and use relevant hashtags to broaden your reach and connect with industry professionals.
Landing Gigs and Performance Opportunities
Nailing the Audition Game
Auditions can be nerve-wracking, but they’re your ticket to new opportunities. Stay updated on job postings through sites like Backstage and CircusTalk, and prepare thoroughly for each one. Tailor your act to what the casting team is looking for, and show them why you are the performer they need.
Building Strong Relationships
Networking is key. Connect with casting agents, event organizers, and other performers. Attend events, join networking groups, and always follow up after an audition. The more people know your name and your talent, the more likely you are to get tapped for upcoming gigs.
Creating Your Own Opportunities
Sometimes, waiting for the perfect gig isn’t enough. Think about organizing solo shows, collaborating with other artists, or performing at local events. Not only do these gigs keep you performing, but they also help expand your audience and show off your initiative.
Keeping Track of Your Progress
Regular Goal Check-Ins
Make a habit of reviewing your goals monthly or quarterly. Are you making progress? Do you need to tweak your plan? This helps you stay focused and ensures your goals stay relevant to where you are in your career.
Celebrate Every Win
Don’t wait for the big milestones to celebrate. Acknowledge every achievement, no matter how small. Celebrating keeps you motivated and reminds you of how far you’ve come.
Adapting as the Industry Changes
The circus world never stays the same for long. New trends, technology, and audience preferences can shift. Be ready to pivot your goals when needed, whether that means exploring virtual performances or adding new elements to your act. Staying flexible is key to long-term success.
Overcoming Challenges
Staying Resilient
Challenges and setbacks are just part of the journey. Staying resilient means keeping a positive mindset, taking care of your mental health, and leaning on your support system when needed. Resilience helps you bounce back stronger and more determined.
Balancing Finances and Ambitions
Let’s face it: the circus industry can be financially unpredictable. Consider supplementing your income with teaching, workshops, or freelance gigs. A steady income can give you the peace of mind to focus on your long-term career goals without added stress.
Conclusion
Setting and achieving your career goals as a circus artist isn’t always easy, but it’s absolutely worth it. With clear planning, a supportive network, and a commitment to continuous learning, you can navigate the ups and downs of this vibrant industry. Remember, your journey is unique, filled with its own challenges and victories. Embrace the process, stay adaptable, and don’t forget to celebrate each milestone along the way. Whether you’re perfecting a new skill, landing a dream gig, or simply taking that next small step forward, know that every effort counts and adds up to your overall success. Keep pushing, stay inspired, and let your passion guide you—because the circus world is waiting to see what you will bring to the stage.
We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories—what goals are you working on, and what challenges have you faced? Drop a comment below or share your journey with us on social media. Remember, every great achievement starts with a single step. Take yours today!
