As a performing arts professional, looking after your health is critical. But caring for your health doesn’t only involve getting good rest, eating a balanced diet, and checking in with your body.
There’s scientific evidence that social relationships affect our mental and physical health, help us form healthy habits, and even decrease mortality risk. Getting out there to connect with others has never been so important. However, you also need to be able to navigate socialising and networking without becoming burnt out.
Scroll down to learn more about how you can network and socialise with others without overwhelming yourself now. Let’s dive in!
Putting Yourself First
Being a performing artist often involves many social connections, which is a perk of the job. But after living in a tour bus for weeks on end, spending long days working with others, and constantly being surrounded by people, you might crave some alone time.
It’s crucial that you understand this desire for solitude is normal, especially after spending lots of time with others. So, if you notice yourself becoming tired, crabby, or less-social, understand that it might signal that you need some time to rest and relax.
Never feel guilty for needing this time! Taking a breather when you can to rest and relax is essential. This could include being screen-free after work, practising mindfulness, walking, journaling, or even taking a mental health day.
It’s also essential to remember that the performing arts industry has a higher proportion of neurodivergent people. Social overwhelm is an issue for many professionals, and it’s nothing to feel self-conscious about.
Relaxing with Friends
Relaxing alone might work for some, but it’s also a great idea to have a trusted friend or family member to connect with outside of work.
Spending time with non-industry friends allows you to take a breather from intense performing arts situations. Keeping your friendship circle broad means your work isn’t at the centre of your social life, and therefore, you can clock off and reset your mind when you’re not working.
Additionally, if you’re touring or working long days, having a friend on call can be beneficial to vent to when needed. This way, you can beat any loneliness and talk to an unbiased loved one if work becomes stressful.
All About Networking
Networking might seem like socialising, but remember that it’s a form of work.
Hunting for gigs and meeting other professionals can be mentally and physically draining. It’s also challenging to complete if you’re experiencing mental health issues. So, separate networking and your own social life to ensure you can approach it with a healthy mindset, energy, and self-esteem.
The more you look after your mental and physical health, the more conscience you’ll have to tackle networking.
Finding Space for Yourself
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to socialising. Finding space for yourself is a journey you must undertake to realise your needs.
Whether you schedule some self-care and alone time into your week or make an effort to connect with non-performing arts friends, navigating social overwhelm looks different for everyone.
Attending workshops and seminars catering to performing arts professionals might also be helpful. These expert-led events provide toolkits to help you manage your mental and physical health while working.
For example, BAPAM frequently hosts events and training sessions for all performing arts professionals. From physical health-based seminars to mental health workshops, we work with other creative industry partners to provide helpful and accessible sessions.
Upcoming workshops include:
- 14th February — Career Transitions: Change, Loss, and Playing to Your Strengths – It’s Okay to Grieve
- 14th February — How to Prioritise Self-Care When Working in Music: Anxiety
- 21st February — Career Transitions: Change, Loss, and Playing to Your Strengths – What’s Next & How to Get There
- 28th February — How to Prioritise Self-Care When Working in Music: Self-Esteem & Self-Doubt
- 6th March — BAPAM Healthy Practice: Physical Health and Injury Prevention
- 13th March — How to Prioritise Self-Care When Working in Music: Building Relationships
- 14th March — BAPAM: Looking After Your Voice: A Guide to Vocal Health
- 27th March — How to Prioritise Self-Care When Working in Music: Negative Thoughts
The Takeaway
Getting out there and meeting others isn’t always straightforward. But hopefully, this blog has provided a guide to looking after yourself as you network and communicate with others. Keep your non-industry friends close, take time when needed, and invest in yourself through BAPAM’s expert seminars.
Want to explore performing arts articles? Visit BAPAM’s blog.