When Discouragement Sets in on the Dance Floor
Lesson from the Dance Floor: Discouragement
As I step into my sixth week of learning to lead, I can't help but admit it: I'm discouraged. The path ahead feels like a winding road with countless detours. While I understand intellectually that mastery takes time, perseverance, and practice, the reality of slow progress hits hard.
Impatience creeps in, along with a nagging feeling of self-doubt. I've come to realize something about myself: I'm the type of person who values mastering the basics before moving forward. I thrive on thorough practice to solidify my foundation. And yet, progress seems slower than anticipated.
I often feel like the weakest link, especially when followers in the partnership seem to "get" it, while I struggle to understand what I'm supposed to do. I've tried to rely on my partner to tell me what she thinks I need to do based on the instructor's directions. However, that backfired when the instructor stepped in and reminded the followers that they needed to let the leaders figure out the steps on their own, so they could not only perform them in class but also on the dance floor independently.
This made me realize how often, at work, I’ve thought, "I could do this way better than leadership," or "Why can't they just figure it out? I'll step in." What followers in both dance and business don't understand (which was once again made so clear in this class led by dance instructor Ervin Kormos) is the amount of weight on the leaders' shoulders. A dance leader doesn't just need to know one step but the next five steps, the flow of the dance, the count, and the pace. They must ensure the steps are safe and enjoyable.
In business, this weight translates to anticipating market changes, strategizing for future growth, managing team dynamics, and ensuring project deadlines are met. Leaders must juggle multiple responsibilities, from setting a vision and communicating it clearly, to making critical decisions that impact the entire organization. They are accountable for the success and well-being of their teams, navigating complex challenges, and steering the company towards its goals. Just as a dance leader maintains the flow and safety of the dance, a business leader ensures stability, progress, and a positive work environment.
Three Important Truths:
1. Remember Your Why
I didn't embark on this journey out of mere curiosity. There was a stirring within me, a whisper urging me to take on this challenge. I owe it to myself to see it through, knowing that worthwhile endeavors often come with unexpected hurdles.
In Business:
Remembering your "why" is crucial in business. It's the driving force behind every decision and action. When faced with obstacles, recalling the original motivation and passion that started the journey can provide the strength to push through. It’s about staying true to your core values and mission, which not only guides you but also inspires your team.
2. Patience is Key
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is mastery. Patience is a virtue I must cultivate as I navigate the ups and downs of this journey. Each stumble is an opportunity to learn and grow.
In Business:
Success in business, much like dance, requires patience. Building a successful enterprise or mastering a new skill set doesn't happen overnight. It's a process that involves learning from failures, iterating on strategies, and consistently putting in the effort. Patience allows leaders to maintain a long-term perspective, fostering resilience and a growth mindset within their teams.
3. Keep the Vision Clear
Despite the challenges, I hold onto the vision of owning the dance floor with confidence and joy. I envision moments of pure connection with my dance partner, where the rhythm of the music guides our every move, and life feels utterly grand.
In Business:
A clear vision is the cornerstone of effective leadership. It serves as a beacon, guiding decisions and motivating the team. In business, keeping the vision clear ensures that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals. It helps to create a sense of purpose and direction, enabling teams to navigate challenges with a unified focus.
Leadership is Hard, But Worth It
No matter how you slice it, leadership is tough. It comes with challenges and responsibilities that extend beyond ourselves. As leaders, we're there to lighten the load, brighten the path, and make the journey more enjoyable for those who count on us. It's about creating an environment where others can thrive, have fun, and find pleasure in their experiences.
The journey from follower to leader, whether in dance or the workplace, is transformative and enriching. It's marked by growth, resilience, and the willingness to step outside our comfort zones. When we embrace this evolution with courage and conviction, we realize our potential and inspire those around us to do the same.
So, as I lace up my dance shoes and prepare for another week of learning, I carry these truths with me. Discouragement may linger, but so does determination. And with each step forward, I inch closer to the dancer—and leader—I aspire to be.
Cheering for your continued success!
Jacqueline