The quote emphasizes the importance of finding excellent training when pursuing a goal or skill. It suggests that devoting significant time and effort to proper instruction can lead to remarkable progress, as indicated by the speaker's decision to take a year off from formal education to focus solely on personal studies under expert guidance.
Beyond its surface meaning, this statement underscores the significance of continuous learning and professional development in any field or pursuit. It highlights that training should be regarded more as an essential component of skill acquisition rather than an optional supplement. The quote also implies that achieving mastery requires not just talent but also a dedication to rigorous and ongoing education from experienced mentors. This perspective challenges common misconceptions about innate ability versus acquired skills, suggesting that success often comes down to the quality of training and commitment.
The speaker, Misty Copeland, is a renowned American ballet dancer who has made significant strides in promoting diversity within classical dance. As one of the first African-American women to be named principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre, her insights into rigorous training reflect both her personal journey and her broader advocacy for excellence in the arts.
