The Difference Between Performance and Embodiment
The Difference Between Performance and Embodiment
In the world of dance (and life!) it’s easy to confuse performance with presence. We're trained to polish, to perfect, to project. But there’s a quiet, undeniable shift that happens when we move beyond performing for others and begin embodying something within ourselves.
Performance is about external validation.
Embodiment is about internal alignment.
Performance seeks applause.
Embodiment seeks truth.
Performance: The Outside-In Approach
Performance is often about being seen. It’s what we do to convey a message, meet expectations, or fit a role. It relies on timing, technique, delivery, and often… approval.
Performance isn’t inherently negative, in fact it can be powerful, moving, and skilled. But when it becomes our default mode in life or leadership, it can start to feel like a mask.
Performance asks:
Did I do it right?
Did they like it?
Was it good enough?
Performance can chase validation. It often lives in the shoulds, driven by audience, outcome, or applause.
Embodiment: The Inside-Out Truth
Embodiment is lived. It doesn’t require an audience. It is when our values, truth, and energy align through action, no matter who’s watching.
To embody something means to be it, deeply, consistently, and without external prompts.
Embodiment feels like:
Integrity in motion
Truth lived through your body, voice, choices
A quiet confidence that doesn't need proving
It’s not always flashy. But it’s always felt.
Where performance seeks response, embodiment exudes resonance. Embodiment holds its power whether in silence or spotlight.
Why the Difference Matters
In leadership, performance might look like saying all the right things to inspire a team. Embodiment is being the example that naturally inspires trust.
In art, performance might master technique. Embodiment channels soul through every movement or note.
In business, performance might mimic trends. Embodiment builds brands that stand the test of time because they’re anchored in truth.
And in life? Performance tries to look like love, worthiness, or confidence. Embodiment is those things. . .lived from the inside out.
A Gentle Invitation
Ask yourself:
Where am I performing?
Where am I embodying?
What would it look like to perform, lead, create, or speak from embodiment?
We don’t need to abandon performance entirely, it has its place. But when embodiment leads the way, our performance becomes something incredibly magical: real, resonant, and rooted.
You don’t need to prove your worth. You are it. This is our anthem at SOUL DE SOUL. As we build the next generation of dancers, together. . .what could happen if we build a community of dancers where EMBODIMENT was prioritized?!
With heart,
Mackenzie Martin
FOUNDER & CEO, SOUL DE SOUL
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