What Misty Copeland Can Teach Us About Success

Over the past 30+ years, I’ve had the opportunity to meet leaders and top performers from all sectors of society. But rarely do I have the chance to meet someone who combines the mental acuity, physical dexterity, and sense of purpose that I found in the most celebrated ballerina of our generation, Misty Copeland.

Misty Copeland is the first African American principal dancer in the 75-year history of the country’s most prestigious ballet company, the American Ballet Theater. I had the opportunity to sit down with her and discuss her success. With her signature class and grace, she spoke openly about discipline and determination.

As I listened, I noticed a few key parallels between the ballet world and the business world I think we all can learn from as we think about how to be successful.

1. Adapt.

Copeland, an African American woman from humble beginnings, was an unlikely candidate to become a prima ballerina. She could have easily allowed financial challenges and lack of opportunity to stifle her ambition, but instead she chose to understand her environment didn’t define her. She identified what was required to be successful, and she adapted.

Resisting the urge to do what is familiar and embracing what’s necessary is often a requirement for success. She trained twice as hard, studied and learned from the greats, and adapted to tackle challenges.

You will encounter barriers when starting a business. How will you respond? Will you choose the biggest obstacle and call that your reason to quit? Or, will you summon the will to work your way through and around the obstacles standing in your way?

2. Be graceful.

Ballet is defined by the grace and precision of its movements. Copeland has worked tirelessly to develop the strength required to be a principal dancer. She also shows us that grace works from the inside out. Her humility regarding her accomplishments and the reverence she has for her fellow dancers exhibit this grace.

The same is true with business. You may be the smartest, most accomplished, or most creative person in a room, but your kindness and grace will make the biggest impact and can take you further than your talent will. Sometimes the greatest show of power is in your ability to exact it without anyone realizing it.

3. Perform.

Copeland has garnered a number of endorsements and accolades, ranging from corporate sponsorships to being honored by the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and serving on the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition.

She receives these honors because she delivers – big time! In business, we’re challenged to do the same. Build an impeccable product or service that people want, and then over-deliver. Being relentless in pursuit of doing your best work will enable you to let your reputation speak for itself.

This post originally appeared on The Playbook.