25 life lessons I learned from ballet - #2
Beyond the arabesques and grand jetés, ballet is an abundant source of priceless life lessons. With the rigorous training and intense discipline it requires, ballet can teach one how to deal with pressure, disappointments, challenges, and ultimately, success. On her 25th anniversary as a professional dancer in 2009, prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde took the time to list down 25 key lessons she learned from ballet and which she felt both dancers and non-dancers can apply in their own lives. This series shares those enduring nuggets of wisdom – one lesson at a time.
It was the first day of Ballet Manila's Christmas break in 2013 but the disciplined artistic director could be found sweating it out at the barre with her regular routine. Photo by Jimmy Villanueva
By Lisa Macuja-Elizalde
2. No pain, no gain! If you are not ready to sweat with the effort and endure physical, mental and yes, emotional pain, in order to achieve your dreams, you will never achieve them. No achievement just falls on your lap (unless you win the lottery). You have to be ready for some hard, back-breaking work.
Top photo: Despite being away from their regular studio, Lisa and her fellow dancers continue with their daily ballet class using makeshift barres. This photo was taken in 1986 during a provincial tour. Photo from the Ballet Manila Archives
