Have you ever avoided working on certain skills because you're afraid of looking foolish?

Have you ever avoided working on certain skills because you're afraid of looking foolish? You're not alone—and here’s why that mindset could be holding you back.

Would you believe Broadway superstar Sutton Foster, known today partly for those dazzling tap routines in Cole Porter’s musical "Anything Goes", once dreaded tap dancing?

True story. She loved performing and naturally excelled at singing and acting, but tap dancing was something she avoided at all costs.

Early in her career, whenever a tap audition came around, she'd conveniently find another opportunity—anything to steer clear of those intimidating metal-tipped shoes. But Broadway has a funny way of bringing challenges full circle.

When Sutton secured the lead in the revival of "Anything Goes" - a role famous for some of the most demanding tap routines ever choreographed—she understandably panicked. She felt overwhelmed, even describing those early rehearsals as "tap boot camp from hell."

But here's where Sutton did something bright - and undeniably brave.

Instead of asking to simplify the choreography or quietly dropping out (tempting, right?), she chose to embrace her weakness head-on. Sutton dedicated weeks to intensive rehearsals, meticulously breaking down every step until her feet ached, but her confidence soared. Slowly, she began to enjoy it.

By opening night, Sutton didn't just manage the routines - she dazzled, stunning critics and audiences alike with her newfound tap talent. The woman who once hid from tap shoes now literally stopped the show nightly.

The twist? Sutton went from tap-averse to tap-iconic, earning herself another Tony Award in the process - all because she bravely faced something uncomfortable instead of sticking safely to what she knew.

The moral of the story? Sometimes, leaning into the skills we dread most is exactly what propels us to heights we never imagined possible.

I’m sure Sutton Foster would agree.

Of course, not all of us are aiming for Tony Awards (though wouldn't that be incredible?). Sutton’s journey highlights a common truth: How often do you quietly skip over uncomfortable parts of your training, hoping no one notices? It's natural—we stick to our strengths, impress others, and conveniently sidestep those tricky skills quietly waiting to trip us up.

Here's the catch - and it's something every successful performer learns sooner or later:

If you only prioritise the skills you're already comfortable with, you limit your potential.

Professional musical theatre performers - the genuinely versatile, standout artists - didn't achieve greatness by avoiding their weaknesses. Instead, they actively chased those awkward, challenging moments (hello again, Sutton Foster!) because they understood the secret lies exactly where we least want to look. And this doesn't just apply to performing - it's true for virtually every aspect of life. Your real strength emerges when you embrace discomfort, confront the skills you’d rather avoid, and transform your weaknesses into surprising strengths.

Recognising that we need to tackle those intimidating skills is half the battle. The other half - the crucial half - is having someone supportive to guide you through it. Whether you're already part of our BIGLITTLE family or curious about rounding out your musical theatre skills, there’s a welcoming, supportive space waiting for you.

Curious about how we can help you conquer your own challenging areas? Simply get in touch - we’d love to explore the possibilities together.

Here's to stepping confidently into your dis-comfort zone.

P.S. Ever notice how the skills we avoid often hold the keys to our next breakthrough?

It's tempting to skip those awkward moments, but by doing so, we might be sidestepping our greatest opportunities for growth.

Here’s a little secret: Developing uncomfortable skills not only enhances your performance but also builds a unique, empowering confidence you can’t get any other way.

So, next time you find yourself avoiding something tricky, remember - that very thing might just be your doorway to success.