Written by: Lydia on FRIDAY, OCT 13, 2023
Allow me to share this deeply personal journey, one that’s as freeing as it is vulnerable. It’s a transformation story that resonates with many in various ways.
For decades, I held a silent struggle deep within me, hidden from the world’s view. It was a battle with my ability to communicate effectively, a challenge ensnared in the web of self-doubt. Shyness was my initial companion, but it soon evolved into a complex insecurity. I began to see myself as unattractive, uninteresting, and undeserving of being heard.
However, there was another side to me, one that came alive on the dance floor. Dancing became my voice, a language of limitless passion. From the very moment I embarked on this journey at the tender age of 6, I found complete freedom and the power to connect with the audience through dance. It was a form of communication where I uncovered my true self.
But when I stepped off the dance floor, my struggles were far from over…
I was skilled at concealing my true feelings. Instead of expressing them in the moment, I would endure, often to the point of bursting. I would only unleash my pent-up emotions when I could tolerate no more, often ending in my departure. Saying no, speaking my truth, and handling my emotions immediately were monumental challenges. The bouquet of troubles kept growing.
As I conversed with people I coached or interacted with one-on-one, they began to open up, sharing their feelings and their dreams. Their words were not in vain; they felt truly inspired and motivated by our interactions. Some even playfully suggested I should become a motivational speaker or blogger, but deep down, I couldn’t help but think, “If only they knew how insecure I felt.”
At the same time, another thought stirred within me—a desire to share my knowledge and experiences with the world. I wanted to help others find happiness, success, creativity, and fulfillment while navigating life’s challenges. I possessed the skills and wisdom, but self-doubt held me back.
Conversely, I was already the owner of the beloved dance studio, DC DanceSport Academy. Through dancing, teaching, coaching, performing, and motivating students, my message was already reaching the world. It was deeply gratifying to see students transform their mindsets and achieve success. My journey as a studio owner was filled with both triumphs and challenges. I elevated some students to the pinnacle of their abilities but encountered obstacles with others, battling the lingering weakness of communicating in the moment. While my motto remained centered on avoiding negativity, I realized it wasn’t always the best solution. What I couldn’t articulate in words, I could convey through writing. I could ponder their problems and guide them towards solutions. Thus, I sought two outlets: one as an inspirer and visionary and the other with a team of conflict resolution experts. This arrangement liberated me from my struggle.
In my personal life, I navigated a constant ebb and flow, similar to the hands of a clock. There were moments when I felt at the peak, aligned with the 12 o’clock mark, and other times when I descended to the low point at 6. Yet I recognized that this cycle was a natural aspect of life, strengthening me with each revolution.
The desire to communicate continued to burn within me. Being a non-native English speaker added an extra layer of doubt. However, I took a leap of faith, leaving behind my life in America to embrace the unfamiliar world in Dubai. I left behind my identity and, in the process, found my voice.
I had nothing to lose, and I decided to speak from the heart, to write to the best of my ability, and to communicate in my own unique way. Although I began to doubt my ability to be a captivating speaker, I remained convinced that I could help people recognize their potential and appreciate the beauty of their individual journeys.
Raising my young daughter served as a well of inspiration. Her occasional moments of doubt, inquiries, and, yes, even fears at times became the driving force behind my journey. In the moment, I would craft stories that addressed her concerns. The results were immediate—she would smile, gather strength, and confront her challenges. I realized that this approach could work for others as well, in my own unique way.
I’m immensely grateful for the grace and purpose that have been revealed to me. My time in Dubai was transformative, allowing me to return to the US with a fresh outlook, new vision, and a different perspective on life.
If you find yourself grappling with a challenge in your life, feeling inadequate, or struggling with self-doubt, I encourage you to question it. Embrace your struggles and transform them into passions. Life is not meant for hiding or suffering; it’s a canvas for exploration, growth, play, and love. The sooner we understand this, the better. I’m here, ready to assist you on your journey. You are not alone.
In the midst of my journey, I found the birth of Dance Life Success Academy, a place where audacious visionaries come to life. Our mission at Dance Life Success Academy is to empower dreamers to reach their loftiest goals through expert coaching and transformative mindset training.
This endeavor is all about daring to dream big, to look at the towering walls of our perceived weaknesses and realize they’re not insurmountable mountains. You have a choice; you can open the door of your weakness and fully embrace it, or you can cautiously peek around it, discovering the magic concealed behind. Aren’t you curious now, tempted to say hello to your weaknesses? It’s a fascinating journey waiting for you! Go ahead; it’s an adventure worth taking.
