Move Your Own Way: Why Originality, Courage, and Creativity Matter
be bold. Be different. Be curious. In dance and in life.
In a world that often rewards conformity and safety, the courage to be different is a radical act. Whether you’re in the studio, on the stage, or navigating the twists and turns of life, being an individual, a risk taker, and an innovator sets you apart—not just for the sake of being different, but for the sake of growth, authenticity, and meaningful impact.
Individuality: Your Superpower
In dance, your individuality is your voice. No one moves like you. No one interprets music, story, or emotion quite the same way. The most memorable performers are not always the ones with the highest legs or the most perfect technique—they are the ones who make you feel something, who bring themselves fully to the stage. Being an individual means trusting your instincts, honoring your unique journey, and resisting the pressure to blend in.
In life, individuality is just as powerful. It’s easy to follow the well-trodden path, but fulfillment comes from pursuing the one that feels true to you. Whether you’re choosing a career, building relationships, or finding your creative voice, individuality is the compass that keeps you aligned with your values and dreams.
Vincent Van Gogh has a wonderful quote “Normality is a paved road: It's comfortable to walk, but no flowers grow on it.”
Risk Taking: The Fuel of Growth
To dance is to risk. Every performance, every improvisation, every audition is a leap into the unknown. The best dancers don’t just master steps—they embrace the discomfort of vulnerability. They know that the moments of falling, of failing, of pushing past limits are the moments where magic happens.
The same goes for life. Risk taking is essential for progress. Whether you’re starting a business, switching careers, or simply speaking your truth, taking risks is how we learn, stretch, and discover what we’re truly capable of. It’s not about being reckless; it’s about being brave enough to choose possibility over fear.
Innovation: Shaping the Future
Innovation in dance is what keeps the art form alive. It’s why we have contemporary dance, fusion styles, and storytelling that breaks boundaries. Innovators aren’t content with doing things the way they’ve always been done. They ask “what if?” and then dare to answer it with action, often changing the course of dance history.
In life, innovation means thinking creatively, adapting to change, and leading with imagination. It’s about finding new solutions to old problems, reimagining what’s possible, and inspiring others to do the same. Innovators don’t just participate—they create.
At my studio, Motion Dance Movement, we believe that risk-taking and innovation isn’t just encouraged—it’s essential to the training process. Whether a student is trying a new style for the first time, working on student choreography, or stepping into a leadership role in rehearsal, we create space for dancers to take chances and grow from the experience. We don’t aim for perfection—we aim for progress, authenticity, and artistry. That means celebrating effort, resilience, and the kind of bold choices that lead to breakthroughs. When dancers are given permission to fall, they learn how to fly. Risk isn’t something we fear—it’s something we build on.
The Takeaway
Whether you’re a dancer or simply someone moving through life with purpose, embracing your individuality, taking risks, and innovating are not optional—they’re essential. They challenge you to evolve, to connect more deeply, and to live a life that is not only successful, but significant.
So be bold. Be different. Be curious. In dance and in life, the ones who dare to break the mold are the ones who make the greatest impact.