I wake up every morning, and I go to ballet class no matter

"I wake up every morning, and I go to ballet class no matter what's going on the night before. That's my priority, and that's what makes me feel sane and not removed from the realities of my world." These words by Misty Copeland speak to a deep commitment to discipline and the power of maintaining one’s priorities amidst the chaos of life. Copeland’s reflection on her daily ritual of ballet practice reveals the profound connection between dedication and mental well-being. In her life, the consistency of her morning routine not only shapes her as an artist but also serves as an anchor, preventing her from becoming disconnected from both her inner self and the world around her.

In the ancient world, the importance of ritual and discipline was well-understood. The Greeks, in particular, valued balance in life and often placed a high premium on daily practices that aligned with one’s purpose. The Spartans, for instance, maintained rigorous physical training as a core part of their daily life, understanding that only through constant physical conditioning could they ensure strength in battle. Similarly, the great philosopher Aristotle wrote extensively on habits, asserting that virtuous actions performed regularly lead to the formation of good character. Copeland’s commitment to her craft mirrors this ancient wisdom, as she understands that daily discipline, whether through ballet or any other craft, is what ensures a life of purpose, clarity, and strength.

Consider the life of Leonidas, the Spartan king, who, before leading his men into the famous Battle of Thermopylae, ensured that his soldiers followed a strict regimen of physical preparation. The Spartan lifestyle was grounded in rigor, sacrifice, and dedication—values that were woven into every aspect of their daily routine. For Leonidas, as for Copeland, the commitment to their craft was not optional but a matter of survival—mental, physical, and spiritual. The routine may have seemed monotonous to outsiders, but it was precisely this discipline that allowed them to rise to the challenges of their respective worlds with strength and focus.

In modern times, we see that the power of routine in maintaining sanity and a sense of connection to the world remains as relevant as ever. Athletes, musicians, and creatives like Copeland rely on a structured day to ground them, offering a sense of control and clarity amidst the uncertainties of their careers and the chaos of daily life. Take Serena Williams, for instance, who has spoken often about how her training routine centers her both physically and mentally, enabling her to overcome the pressures of the sport and the demands of fame. The act of prioritizing her practice allows her to stay connected to her craft and, in turn, to her personal stability. Like Copeland, Williams’ commitment to discipline becomes the anchor that keeps her from being swept away by external pressures.

The lesson embedded in Copeland’s words is simple yet profound: our priorities—the rituals and routines we choose to engage in—shape the way we experience life. In a world filled with distractions, constant demands, and unexpected obstacles, it is our daily practices that keep us grounded and aligned with our purpose. When Copeland says that ballet helps her remain connected to the realities of her world, she is recognizing the deep psychological and emotional benefits of structure. The focus required in ballet demands not just physical precision but mental clarity, offering her a sense of centeredness that carries over into other aspects of her life.

This message of discipline and connection is one that we can all carry into our own lives. Whether our passions lie in art, education, business, or family, the simple act of creating a ritual—a daily commitment to something meaningful—can provide the clarity and resilience needed to navigate life’s uncertainties. Copeland’s dedication to her morning ballet practice teaches us that it’s not always about achieving perfection but about committing to the process—about showing up each day, no matter the challenges, to engage in something that keeps us grounded.

So, let us take this wisdom into our own lives. Create your rituals, whatever they may be—whether through exercise, reading, writing, or simply spending time in reflection. Establish those habits that not only strengthen you in the physical sense but also provide you with the mental clarity to face the trials of life. Like Misty Copeland, let us prioritize our passions and disciplines, knowing that it is through these routines that we stay connected to ourselves and the world around us, no matter how turbulent the storm may seem. Discipline is not a burden but a gateway to deeper understanding and a stronger sense of self, ultimately leading us to a life more aligned with our true purpose.