How do you handle stress? Everyday I'm reminded that dance studio ownership is not about getting the work 'all' done, or getting it perfect for that matter. There will always be a website to update, an email to send, a costume to order, a parent to meet with, a schedule to plan, a class to teach and the list goes on and on.

In fact at our dance studio, we are facing the challenge right now of having to re-do some tracking systems for student records that were set up improperly the first time! Stress can often impact the fun and joy we wish for on a day-to-day basis with our roles.

There is a saying my husband reminds me of when I start to get overwhelmed and stressed over everything that has to get done. That reminder is:

"There will always be five points to go."

In other words, when you're truly up to big things - running a business, managing many responsibilities, and stretching yourself by growing and making a difference there will always be more work to do.

Recently I had the privilege of interviewing a well-know dance studio owner whose alumni have gone on to incredible careers, including recent successes on "So You Think You Can Dance" One question I asked her was "what is your secret to producing such extraordinary dancers at your studio?". She said she has high expectations for her dancers and they rise to the challenge. She also said she makes an effort to bring her dancers to events where sometimes they may not be the best so that they can experience another level of dancing to strive toward.

There will always be five points to go. Even when you're extraordinary, there's room for growth.

As I write this email I'm getting ready to attend a 3-day conference that I look forward to each year. This is a conference of entrepreneurs, business owners, authors, speakers, writers and more. It makes me stretch out of my comfort zone because many of the attendees have books that have been on the best seller list, run wildly successful businesses, and many are making incredible contributions in the world to important causes. It re-energizes my commitment - I love this community - you're keeping dance education alive in the world.

You are playing big! Every day that you get up and share your talent and time with people it is a gift. Where in your life or business can five points to go help you re-energize or let go of some stress?

This Week's Tip: There will always be five points to go. Here's how to maximize your moments of stress and transform them.

#1. Create a visual reminder. Perhaps write down on your daily planner or tape it to your desk, "There will always be five points to go" smile and know that you are playing big.

#2. Ask for help. If there is a recurring to-do item that isn't getting done or nagging you. Either you need to seek help from someone who knows what and how to do it or you need to delegate that task. It's freeing, try it.

#3. Be present. When you're dealing with a hundred details at once and always the next to-do item, take a moment and acknowledge yourself for the amazing contribution you make every day to people's lives. Often we look for external validation and thanks that are few and far between in this business. Instead, get present to the joy you bring to your students and community.

#4. Gratitude. What are you thankful for right in this very moment? When you take a minute or two each day to pause and really feel what you're grateful for in the moment or time being it can re-energize you and help keep you focused and moving forward even in the truly tough times.

My commitment is to help you keep the passion for dance alive as you grow your business.