Life Lessons from the Rockettes

12/26/2023

Life Lessons from the Rockettes

Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.
Samuel Beckett, 1906-1989, Nobel Prize-winning Irish writer

According to the Radio City Rockettes, there's more to dance than putting on a fabulous show. "Dance teaches you more than how to chassé. It improves more than your flexibility, and it builds more than your strength. Think about it—the qualities you take on as a dancer don’t just help you in the studio.” The Rockettes offer five life lessons from dance that apply to life in general:

Determination. “No one was born knowing how to high kick or plié. You got there by practicing. You tried … you didn’t get it. You tried again … you got closer. And finally, you got it. Take your determination to reach your goals.”
Precision. “Put simply: Because you’re a dancer, you just don’t do sloppy. Think back to your disciplined and perfectionist dance teacher or coach—would she accept anything less than the best? Nope and neither should you.”
Teamwork. “You know the importance of a team that’s in sync. If a fellow dancer is lagging behind, the whole team is affected, and so is the final product... Rely on your group, and let them rely on you, too.
Self Confidence. Remember the first time you stepped into the dance studio? You didn’t know what you were doing, but you learned...Push yourself to do something you’re a little afraid of because you know you’re going to rock it.
Talent. Even if dancing is your strongest talent (or even if it isn’t), don’t forget you have others, too. Think of that amazing feeling when you’re dancing …that feeling exists in other parts of your life, too! ...Play to your talents and not only will you feel good, but you’ll also leave a great impression.

What life lessons would you offer from caring for and teaching young children?

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