Your Oireachtas Mindset Guide 2024

Oireachtas season is in full swing, and each week there will be another group of excited dancers competing for their place at the 2025 World Championships! We love Oireachtas season because it is a time filled with possibilities, but we understand that this time can also be filled with nerves, pressure and lots of Irish Dancers struggling with their Mindset. 

Annabelle has been super busy working with Dancers in 1:1 sessions for the last few weeks to prepare them for the Oireachtas, but she has found the time to let us know the three biggest hurdles she sees Dancers facing when preparing for Oireachtas, and how you can overcome them! 

Perfectionism or Fear of Failure 

Many dancers hold themselves to incredibly high standards, aiming for their three rounds to be flawless. Aiming for perfection can lead to a fear of making even the smallest mistake, causing unnecessary stress, anxiety, and sometimes even self-sabotage.

It is important to emphasise progress over perfection. Encourage yourself to see mistakes as learning opportunities rather than proof of failure. Remember that no one in the competition will have a flawless three rounds (that is the beauty of Irish dancing) and that the judges value your overall performance, confidence, and technique. 

Comparisons 

In a competitive setting, it’s natural for dancers to compare themselves to others, especially when at the Oireachtas. This comparison can lead to insecurity and a feeling of "not being good enough," which can detract you from your performance and preparation.

We recommend you focus on your personal growth and celebrate your achievements. Encourage yourself to recognise their unique strengths, focus on your journey, and remember why you love dancing. Each night before you go to sleep, practice writing down a gratitude list (this is something that Meg has done for years!) as it can help diminish the power of comparison.

Pressure 

Knowing that a single Feis is the culmination of months or even years of preparation can create immense pressure to “peak” or “succeed” on the day of the competition. This can lead to performance anxiety, overthinking, and feeling overwhelmed.

Rather, focus on the overall process of becoming a better dancer, not just the outcome of qualifying or winning or recalling. Shift your mindset to enjoy the journey of improvement and preparation. Build a routine of mindfulness and visualisation into your daily routine as this can also help you to feel more centred and present, reducing the feeling that everything rides on one performance.

If you can do all of these things in the lead up to your Oireachtas you’re giving yourself the best chance of having a super mindset during Oireachtas and coming away filled with pride in yourself and your dancing. 

You can learn more about how to ‘Master Your Major Mindset’ using our £17 Masterclass - buy yours here and learn so much more in 50 minutes!