One of our core values at Liberty Dance Center is being a “Lifelong Learner – We expect our students to come to class ready to learn new steps and ways of doing things. It’s important for the LDC staff to do the same. Challenge ourselves to learn something new every week, if not every day. Books, podcasts, online videos, classes, etc.”
This week I had the opportunity to attend an in person business conference. There is something so special about getting “in the room” with other people looking to learn and grow. The conversations that happen at the snack/coffee table, in the hotel lobby, and during meals are so valuable. What I loved most about this business conference is that even though I do have friends here that own dance studios as well, most don’t. It’s refreshing to hear from business owners in other industries-from MedSpas to Construction Companies to Restaurants and everything in between. And what always shocks me, is that as unique as we all feel our situations are, we all have the same struggles and goals.
Some of us here have been in business for close to 20 years like me. And others are brand new and some have been in business for many more years than I have. There are men and women. People in their 20s and people in their 60s. Sharing experiences and ideas with each other is invaluable. When my husband asked me this morning how the conference was going, I replied “great! I just need to process all that info and ideas that are in my head!” Boy there is a lot in there…and it’s awesome!
My hope when attending these conferences is multi-fold. Of course I hope to walk away with ideas that will help my business serve our families even better. But I also hope that our students at Liberty Dance Center see that even at age 45 I am still “going to school” and learning whenever I can. And being away at these conferences is also a learning experience for the amazing team at the studio as they get to see that they can handle daily operations on their own…sometimes even better than when I am there!
So as I wrap up my time here, I look forward to the quiet drive home with time to think. It makes me excited to see what the future holds and know that every time I attend a conference, read a book, listen to a podcast and/or take an online course is a step forward. Running a business is a challenge for sure, but boy is it a fun one! And knowing that we are making a difference in so many lives, is our why. And what an honor that is. One we don’t take lightly!
~Miss Kate
