Last weekend, my two younger daughters joined their first dance competition here in Yokosuka.

They’ve been practicing jazz dance for about a year and a half, but it was their first time performing on stage. Most of the dancers were doing hip-hop or breakdance, so my wife and I were a little worried about how they would do.

My youngest was nervous but gave it her best. My middle daughter made it to the next round and faced one of the best dancers in the competition, a boy with much more experience. She was clearly nervous, but she stepped forward and danced with all her effort. Watching both of my daughters overcome their fear and give it everything they had made me very proud.

What also impressed me was her opponent. After the performance, he invited everyone to clap for her. That small act showed real sportsmanship and awareness, which was remarkable at his age.

It made me think about how often we face fear in our own lives, in business and outside of it. Fear of failing, fear of being judged, fear of stepping into something new. It’s easy to hold back or wait until we feel ready, but growth rarely happens in those moments. It comes when we decide to move forward anyway, even when the outcome is uncertain.

And when we do, our courage often inspires others. Just like that young boy’s empathy lifted my daughter after her performance, the way we show up in uncertain moments can quietly influence the people around us.

Courage and kindness don’t always lead to victory, but they always leave an impact—one that helps others find their own confidence to try.

#Leadership #Learning #Courage #Empathy