Pointes and Perspective #16 It's Easier Done Than Said

Easier Done Than Said

Leadership, example, and inspiration is not always about words. More often it is about the actions that accompany them that can truly inspire, motivate, and light a spark. 

Years ago, when I founded my first school, I made it a priority every year, to schedule a week where all the younger students would sit in on the advanced classes. Whether they were 5 years old, or only a year younger than the advanced students, every class would have the opportunity to sit along the mirror, and observe, as the advanced students took their daily ballet technique class - barre, adagio, tours, petit allegro, grand allegro, and reverence. The sweat, the repetition, the dissection of combinations of terminology, the corrections, critique and compliments. The usual daily agenda.

These in-studio observations were priceless!  The advanced students were true leaders “setting the stage”, leading by example, demonstrating preparedness, etiquette, work ethic, technique, and performance quality. And whether they were 5 years old, or 15 years old, the observers sat, silently absorbed, fascinated - and inspired!  

These days, when my advanced students come to the center and work in groups, I often stop to ask the group who is waiting their turn to dance, “What have you learned while watching your classmates?” The hands quickly raise to offer examples of particular students, specific accomplishments, or notable discoveries. Watching and studying their fellow dancers in action, can often be more influential, informative, and transformative than my words. 

And those whose turn it is to dance, develop character as they practice leadership, setting a proper example for others to follow. If you want everyone else to be passionate, committed, dedicated, and motivated, you do it first! Talk is cheap, but when you go out there and do it - setting up for a combination properly, pushing yourself, working through mistakes and fumbles, applying direction and correction, holding your head high, and finishing no matter how the combination went - that’s how you lead and inspire by example!

Leading by example is a source of inspiration to others, but also a reminder that effective leadership begins with ourselves! You don’t need someone watching you to be an example. I tell my students constantly that they need to be an example to themselves. That they should take class as if no one is there with them - no students, no teacher - and continue to work hard FOR THEMSELVES.  Inspire yourself to exemplify personal integrity and a commitment to high principles and standards.

I tell them about my small home studio, where I give myself barre, and how I start every combination properly, work diligently, use performance quality and epaulment, and hold my finish pose until the “curtain is closed.” Yes, all by my lonesome, holding that finish! Because I am watching, encouraging, and impressing ME!

Whether you are making an impact on young students, patrons of the arts, your classmates, or yourself, actions speak louder than words - do it!

As Frank Sonnenberg said, “If you want to serve as an example - it’s easier done than said.”