I honed my skills as a ballet dancer during my formative years. While years have passed since I hung up my ballet shoes, I can still hear the words of my seasoned dance instructor: “Practice does not make perfect, but perfect practice makes perfect.” These enduring words have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric of my career.
As I reflect on the twists and turns of my professional journey—from an insurance claims adjuster to chief operating officer for AAA Northern California, Nevada and Utah, one of the most trusted brands in America—it has become evident that the principles from ballet hold true in business. These five lessons, in particular, stand out:
1. Master the fundamentals.
Like a pirouette that unfolds with a solid foundation, understanding industry basics and market trends lays the groundwork for navigating complex business challenges.
Developing a comprehensive understanding of business fundamentals gives you confidence to take calculated risks that can propel you forward. It also instills fearlessness in adapting to new directions while serving as a reminder that progress still occurs even when the path ahead is unclear.
2. Embrace adaptability.
Ballet is all about moving with the rhythm, which mirrors the ever-evolving business landscape. Mastering the art of pivoting, innovating and responding to change is essential in any profession or industry.
Embracing adaptability has empowered me to say yes to opportunities, expanding my skillset and leadership into areas and industries I had never considered. Being the only AAA NCNU executive with experience in marketing, sales and road-service divisions allows me to bring a unique perspective to my role.
3. Maintain grace under pressure.
Poise is crucial in both ballet and business. We have all felt the spotlight in high-stakes situations, from navigating tight deadlines to confronting unexpected challenges.
As a leader, grace and humility have become my guiding force. In addition to enhancing overall professional performance, these qualities foster more customer-centric decision-making, especially in the face of demanding circumstances.
4. Collaborate and communicate.
Just as dancers work together to tell a story on stage, collaboration is nonnegotiable in the corporate world. I've seen time and time again how teamwork produces strong outcomes.
Collaboration and open communication is an art that empowers teams and strengthens organizations.
5. Seek support and continuous improvement.
If you think of your professional journey as a dancer, integrating support and striving for improvement are vital pieces of choreography.
Actively pursuing constructive feedback and dedicating yourself to continuous improvement are indispensable disciplines. My advice is to craft a career plan, establish clear goals, and proactively seek mentorship.
The saying, “Practice does not make perfect, but perfect practice makes perfect” is relevant to professionals at every career stage, whether you are early in your career or navigating the complexities of being a seasoned professional.
Your career is not just a path; it's part of your personal growth journey. Let this wisdom guide your steps with purpose and add a touch of artistry to your pursuit of excellence as you unlock your full potential.
