Hard letter to write...any good ideas of format and how to phrase stuff?

Question

I'm writing a letter to my dance teacher after eight years of dancing, and letting her know that my schudule is crazy and that my heart hasn't been in dance this past year and that it was just too much for me...I know what I need to tell her but I have a great relationship with this woman and it's hard to tell her that I'm leaving. I need some help from anybody on here about how to phrase stuff and the format and how on earth do I get right down to just saying "I'm qutting!" It's really hard for me...please help.

Answer 1

This letter seems like it is very important to you, start with a list of everything you want to tell her, make sure to not leave anything off the list. Refer to that list when you write your letter. Then begin your letter by respectfully telling your teacher how much you enjoy dancing and taking her class. Then explain your situation and honestly say why you can't continue to fit dance into your schedule. Then continue by saying how much you've learned, and how much your teacher has helped you by being your teacher and friend. Then maybe you can conclude by saying something sweet such as you hope you can remain friends and continue to communicate, and perhaps maybe you can get together and dance again sometime when your schedule allows it. Maybe you can mention in your letter what it is that has taken precedence in your schedule over dance. It's a good idea to re-write your letter into a final copy. I'm sure your teacher will understand and appreciate your situation and that you take the time to write a letter. Any more questions feel free to e mail me to ask, my schedule is pretty open these days since it's summer vacation.

Answer 2

Hi. It sounds like you are a thoughtful person who is trying to do the responsible thing in being open and honest in your communication with your dance teacher. When you write her, I think those qualities should characterize the "tone" of your letter. To start out, you might want to let her know how important her instruction has been and how much you value her input in your life - you could write how much she has helped to shape you, whether or not it involves dance and whether or not you decide to dance in the future. What, specifically, have you learned from her that transcends the formal aspects of dance? How has she mentored you? After that sort of intro (one in which you stress the positives of your relationship with her and your history as a student of dance) you could move on to articulate the reasons why you are taking some time off. If you thinkg you *might* go back to studying dance, say that you are taking a "sabbatical" from dance at the present time. If not (and it sounds like you are certain you want to take some serious time off), just state that - honestly and respectfully. I think she will honor and appreciate that. To close, I think it would be helpful to again stress how much her being your teacher has meant to you. You could end with something to the effect that you wish (if you do) to stay in touch with her and that since she has been such an important person in your past, you would love for her to be involved in your present and future, even if you do not continue your relationship/friendship with her in the direct and historical capacity in which it began - dance. You sound like you really do care about minimizing the surprise this letter might cause, but rest assured, I think your instructor will understand your need to move your life into a new direction with a new chapter. Good luck - you'll be fine!

Answer 3

It sounds like you already know how to write this letter. Of course, a letter is kind of a chicken way out. If you really have a great relationship with her and you respect and admire her, then you should do her the courtesy of going to her and telling her how you feel and that you have decided to move away from dance and onto other things. (You never know, she may already be aware this is happening !!) You could write out a letter - from your heart - and tell her how much you have enjoyed your time with her; how you admire her; how great it has been to have her part of your life; how much you have learned - and thank her for everything, but you really should tell her in person and leave the card with her afterwards.

Answer 4

Okay im very good at wrting letters but i do agree with the first person you should tell her face to face its much more respectful then a letter would be but if you must write one just simply tell her how wonderful the experince she has given you will all ways be remember and that you thank her much for the chance for you to apart of her life and vice-versa! Say your very sorry but you need to experince other things make sure you have done what ever possible you can and let her know but be as nice and kind as you possible can and GOOD LUCK in your choices from now and forever!!