I’ve attended many dance competitions, but last weekend was my first time not as a performer but as a coach. I was excited to watch all the hard work of our teams come to life. The dancers have been training for months, working hard to perfect their routines, and pushing themselves to new limits.
As we waited in the wings for my first team’s number to be called, the dancers were filled with a blend of confidence and nerves. “Number 19” rang out and they took the stage to preform. Like Amy Poehler in Mean Girls, I stood off-stage watching and cheering them on in my ‘cool mom’ / proud coach moment.
Fast forward a few hours to the end of the night, it was finally time for awards. The teams sat on stage as they announced scores and placements across all the divisions and categories. I heard my team’s scores and although good, I knew they didn’t place as high as they’d hoped. I felt my stomach drop as I saw their faces settle in with this reality. The disappointment was real.
This sting of unmet expectations is something we all experience at some point—whether in competition, in business, or personally. It comes with the harsh reality of putting yourself out there, and sometimes, despite best efforts, the outcome isn’t what you envisioned.
Losing (or not scoring as high as you anticipated) isn’t the end of the story; it’s simply a chapter in the journey. It’s in these moments that resilience is built, self-awareness deepens, and the drive to improve is reignited. This should become fuel for the future.
As leaders, we face these same moments. A business deal falls through. A project doesn’t hit its milestones. A promotion goes to someone else. In these moments, we can dwell on the loss or use it as momentum to push forward.
The best leaders—just like the best dancers—don’t just show up for the easy wins. They show up for the process, the grit, and the growth that come with every challenge. When an unexpected setback happen, it’s okay to feel the disappointment, but don’t let it define you. Let it drive you. Because the real win is in the way you rise.
When was a time you didn’t achieve the outcome you wanted? How did you respond? What did you learn from that experience that shaped how you approach challenges today? How do you turn setbacks into stepping stones for future success?
LEADERSHIP & CULTURE
Small Giants Community Summit 🌆
Register here for April 29-May 31 ($)
Join me and our Small Giants Community for the 2025 Annual Small Giants Community Summit in Detroit! This unique 2.5-day business conference goes beyond the ordinary, bringing together purpose-driven leaders to explore this year’s theme: Connections. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded leaders.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Blackstone LaunchPad’s Startup Tools 🔧
View the list here
Syracuse University’s Blackstone LaunchPad has created a list of free or discounted startup tools.
INNOVATION
Canva Create 🖼️
Register here for free to attend April 10
Canva Create is a creative festival bringing together ideas and insights on business, AI, design, and innovation. Hear from inspiring keynote speakers and get a first peek at new Canva products. Attend in-person or for free online.
PERSONAL GROWTH
The Free Mindfulness Project 🧘
Access free resource here
The Free Mindfulness Project offers free and easy access to a variety of mindfulness meditation exercises. Whether you're looking to reduce stress or cultivate greater mindfulness, their collection of guided meditations provides a simple way to support your well-being.