I started ballet at 24. No dance background, zero flexibility, couldn't tell a plié from a relevé.

Now I teach it. Here's what I wish someone had told me on day one:

1. You don't need to be flexible to start. Flexibility comes FROM ballet. Not the other way around. Stop stretching for 3 months "to get ready." Just start.

2. Your body will feel weird at first. Turnout, pointed feet, straight spine — none of it feels natural because you've never used your body this way. That's the point. Give it 2-3 weeks.

3. Comparison will kill your progress. You're not competing with the 8-year-old who started in kindergarten. You're competing with yesterday's version of you.

4. Consistency beats intensity. 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week beats a single 3-hour session on Saturday. Your muscles need repetition, not punishment.

5. It's supposed to be fun. If you're not smiling at least once per session, something's off. Ballet is hard, but it's also beautiful. Enjoy the process.

I built Dance Ballet for people exactly like me — adults who've always wanted to try but never knew where to start. If that's you, come say hi.