Oh, but to have the grace of a ballet dancer. Ballet dancers make it look so easy but their dedication and skill are second to none. Ballet is one of the most difficult skill to master and it takes a combination of bravery, respect, skill, charm, and elegance. Alice Abraham said, “In life as in dance, grace glides on blistered feet.” In other words, life won’t always be smooth, it won’t always be easy but when you can smile and show up in spite of the rocks you have to climb, that my friends, is what it means to be graceful.
This article breaks down GRACE as an acronym so that you can take the words to heart and apply it in your life, practically.
G is for Gallant. To be gallant is to be polite and thoughtful in word and deed. It also means to be dauntless and fearless in the face of opposition, having the courage to step out of your comfort zone and tread new waters. Your confidence and self-assuredness can be seen in your gait, your stance, your smile, and quiet determination.
R is for Respect. This is more than just being polite to your elders; it’s about caring for the people and things around you because you acknowledge their importance to you. It also applies to you showing respect to your trade or profession and consideration for the people around you who are likely to be affected by your words and actions. Respect indeed is reciprocal, so if you honour others, you yourself will be honoured.
A is for Adroitness. To be adroit means to be skillful, quick in your thinking and nimble. An adroit dancer can dance in his sleep, the same way Stevie Wonder can play the piano so expertly, albeit being blind. There is a saying, “Whatever is worth doing, is worth doing well.” Even if you are given an opportunity that was not based on merit, it is your ability and aptitude that will keep you there. That is why you must always invest in yourself to become a man or woman of substance.
C is for Charm, Character and Charisma. You can’t be graceful without being charming or having a presence that is undeniable and unforgettable. Charm is a quality that makes you likable, attractive and approachable. It draws people to you, like a moth to a flame. This is one attribute you cannot afford to live without.
E is for Elegance. Just like the ballet dancer, you have got to have panache. Be classy and tasteful in your appearance and behaviour. This doesn’t mean be snooty, snobbish or consider yourself better than others, rather, let there be an air of dignified grace around you that reflects your values, integrity and character.
Anyone can slip a foot into a ballet slipper, but it is the one who has blistered feet from years of practice and determination; the one who instead of giving up, shows up, performance after performance……now that is the graceful one.