“Do one thing every day that scares you.”
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.”
“We can make ourselves miserable or we can make ourselves strong. The amount of work is the same.”
There are so many cliches about stepping out of our comfort zone. We hear them often in the media or from motivational speakers, teachers, parents, or coaches. But, what does it truly mean to challenge yourself and how can you start today?
Make a new friend at dance class
Say hi to someone you have never talked to before. Give a smile or wave as you pass others in the parking lot. You never know what kind of great friendships can form from a simple hello.
Many dancers (myself included) tend to be more introverted than extroverted. That’s why we find the medium of dance so freeing as a form of self-expression.
You can say it all without having to say anything! However, I’ve found that a little willingness to step outside your norms is almost always worth it! Connections with others who share the same interests as you are vital to a strong foundation as a dancer.
Stand in a new spot
Challenge yourself to dance in a new spot each week at dance! Most dancers pick the same spots religiously and rarely mix it up. If you usually hide in the back, gradually make your way to the front. Or dive right in and go for that front and center spot!
What’s the worst that could happen? Your teachers and peers want you to succeed. Don’t worry if you don’t get every combination perfectly when you’re standing in the front row. It’s better to try and have something to work for than not to try at all!
Challenge yourself outside of the studio
What are some things you want to try or goals you have? Have you always wanted to learn to play guitar or paint? How about becoming better at math or writing?
Set some concrete goals and work towards them each week. You don’t have to spend a ton of time working on a goal to be successful. Baby steps will get you up the mountain just as surely as giant leaps.
For example, I (Miss Lori) had always wanted to write a book. It took me several years of working, writing, and revising, sometimes only working in 15-20 minute intervals when time allowed. Yet, in 2022 my lifelong dream came to fruition when I published my memoir, Rooted: Memoirs of an Adoptee.
You truly can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Let that be your mindset for this wonderful 15th season at Liberty. Good things take time!
