The Price of Gossip: Choose Growth Over Gabs in Dance

The Price of Gossip: Choose Growth Over Gabs in Dance

In the bustling world of dance, where schedules are often jam-packed and to-do lists never-ending, time is a precious commodity. It's a resource that dance educators and studio owners know all too well, and when it's in short supply, every minute counts. This reality hit me square in the face on one particularly hectic day, during an unexpected call that would teach me a valuable lesson about the power of words and priorities in our close-knit dance community.

As I picked up the phone, little did I know that the conversation about to unfold would be a stark reminder of the consequences of getting involved in gossip. The caller was eager to share some negative tidbits about another highly respected dance person, someone we both knew and who I thought my caller admired. At first, the exchange seemed harmless, a moment of camaraderie in the midst of our busy lives. However, as we delved deeper into the conversation, it became apparent that this impromptu gossip session was not what I bargained for, and I felt uncomfortable. I wished I had never picked up the phone.

The minutes ticked away, and my growing unease gnawed at me. My to-do list loomed large, and the interruption was now causing unnecessary stress. That's when I made a decision that, in retrospect, I wish I'd made sooner. I kindly interrupted the chatter and explained that, as much as I valued our connection, I couldn't afford to dedicate time to this gossip. With as much genuine warmth as I could muster, I told my caller that I wished the subject of our conversation all the best and hung up.

In our tight-knit dance community, talking behind someone's back is not a wise choice, whether you're a seasoned dance teacher or a dedicated studio owner. It's crucial to understand that our words often find their way to others, and sometimes, they circle back to the very person we were discussing.

Instead of spending our precious time telling stories or spreading rumors, perhaps we should redirect that energy towards our personal growth. Every moment we invest in nurturing our skills, enriching our knowledge, and enhancing our contributions to the dance world is a moment well spent. When we focus on our growth, we not only elevate ourselves but also our entire dance community. We become better educators, mentors, and advocates for this beautiful art form that brings us all together.

So, let this be a lesson to all of us in the dance world—our time is too valuable to be spent on idle gossip. Let's prioritize growth, both individually and collectively, and continue to nurture the supportive, respectful, and uplifting culture that makes our dance community so special. In doing so, we'll not only become better professionals but also better stewards of the art we hold so dear.

Have an awesome day and enjoy the journey—Rhee Gold