From an impoverished young boy in communist China to a professional ballet dancer with global acclaim, Li Cunxin’s story is as inspiring as they come. His personal journey was recorded in his autobiography Mao’s Last Dancer, and now the artistic director of Queensland Ballet talks business. Here he shares his tips for career success.
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Set a vision
A leader has to be incredibly passionate and committed to their vision. That vision has to be clear, it has to be bold, and it has to be strong.
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Be passionate
It’s the most important ingredient. My job is to continue to challenge our dancers, and feed them [with passion]; to continue feeding them with the sweet taste of success.
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Talk, but also listen
Everyone has to be on the same page and that comes down to communication.
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Act bravely
Have the courage to make decisions along the way. It would have been so easy for me to keep the status quo and return to China, but I stayed in America. I nearly lost my life for it, but it was the best decision I ever made, even with the difficulties that followed with my family’s separation.
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Stay productive
Focus, focus, focus. Particularly when you’re busy, you have to be very focused on what you do and on the execution of your plans. Otherwise you’re going to get lost in all the noise and the thousands of things that come your way.
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Find inspiration
One of my all-time heroes is Nelson Mandela. I admire him because he was a man of courage and principle.
Measure success based on the goals you have set, against the impact and the outcomes. – Li Cunxin
Despite the unfair things that were imposed on his life, he was never a bitter man. He was pragmatic and generous in spirit. He always had the best interests of his people in mind.
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Seize the now
Live your life like there’s no tomorrow, as though every single day is your last one. That way you’re going to truly value and treasure the time you have on this earth and the opportunities that come your way. You won’t ever take them for granted.
