I enjoy watching peoples’ reactions when, after they tell me I look like a ballerina, I tell them I do kickboxing, too. I have a difficult time getting people to understand why I chose to begin kickboxing after ballet. Truthfully, I've always tended to seek out opposite experiences. I like to challenge my ability to think from multiple perspectives, adapt quickly, and perform under unfamiliar circumstances. I especially appreciate the “people traffic” I’ve encountered.
I’ve never fully abandoned the mentality that was instilled in me during my ballet training, and I feel like it almost naturally prepared me for kickboxing. It emphasizes a methodical (borderline neurotic) approach to learning and practicing, as well as the “no pain no gain” mantra. In both kickboxing and ballet, I trained my body to move in unnatural ways by spending hours upon hours perfecting each portion of a step. You can’t skip steps. Everything needs to be secure in its place before you move on. Once you master the technique, however, there’s a considerable amount of freedom in which you can develop and manipulate the technique you’ve mastered. At this point, creativity is an asset.
I feel like I’m attracted to a business environment because it provides opportunities for both the meticulous and creative to create something with a purpose. Through the numerous encounters with people and exposure to unfamiliar environments, there is infinite potential for success and growth in the business field.
As a fellow former dancer, I can attest to the fact that dance teaches you much more than balance, flexibility, and rhythm. The rigorous training dancers put themselves through helps with many aspects of life, and is a talent that is carried with you the rest of your life, long after you stop dancing.
ReplyDeleteI never took ballet but I did take modern and while the styles are dramatically different, as an art dance taught me to overcome (occasional) pain throughout performance and taught me to think and move simultaneously (which takes great concentration). What I enjoyed the most about modern dance is the freedom of expression though my body, but based on everyday encounters or objects we use everyday like a walk through the park or the use of a door. What I have always admired about ballet, however on the contrary is its codified technique and the fact that to observe ballet is not extremely abstract, rather it is more direct in it's movement which typically makes the conveying of a story through dance clearer.
ReplyDeleteClaire, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this post because it truly reflects who you are. I have the pleasure of both working with you and going to school with you, and have witnessed your "No pain, no gain" and "You can't skip steps" attitudes in both settings. You are a determined and self-sufficient co-worker and student, but you certainly become explorative and curious once you master a skill. I think these traits will take you far in the business world, and I will be proud to say that I was there when it all began!
ReplyDeleteClaire, your first sentence made me smile. You love watching people's reactions, but your own facial expressions are priceless. During class discussions or presentations I'll sometimes glance in your direction and be fully entertained by the look on your face. It's evident that you really do enjoy challenging yourself to gain a new perspective. You are thoughtful and curious, and ready to take on something new and unexpected! The business world certianly found an asset with you!
ReplyDeleteClaire, you have astutely made the connection between business and the arts. At Exxon, we used to hire rhythm specialists to lead us in exercises to better understand the importance of teamwork and rhythm. And I agree with Julie, your face is an open book. I too peak at your reactions and am seldom disappointed!
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