Maxim Beloserkovsky

Courtesy American Ballet Theatre

Maxim Beloserkovsky is principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre and is married to the ballerina Irina Dvorovenko. Together they have created Night At The Ballet, a unique production which will be performed this week as part of the Abu Dhabi Festival. Have a dream and follow it. From the time I was young, my dream was to become a ballet dancer. I was fortunate that I was able to receive the necessary schooling and training, but achieving success required a serious commitment to work hard and stay focused on what I wanted, in spite of whatever setbacks and challenges I might face along the way. I've learnt that if you believe in yourself and your ability to accomplish your goals, you're more than halfway there.

Do what you love. Like everyone else, my life has been filled with responsibilities and distractions. But developing the discipline to be able to devote myself to something I enjoy while managing all these demands has given me happiness and strength, making it easier to deal with those things I'd rather not be doing. Surround yourself with people and things that inspire you. Great teachers, respected peers, wonderful art and spirituality are major parts of my life and have helped define who I am.

Don't be afraid to challenge yourself. Making mistakes is a valuable part of the growth process. I've learnt to treat a mistake not as a personal failure, but as an opportunity to learn and improve. Be realistic: you can't control events, but you can control your attitude. Celebrating success is important, but the learning process should never stop. Stay grounded. I try to treat others the same way I'd like to be treated. I'm fortunate to have a wonderful family and friends, and they have become the foundation of a happy and fulfilling life. Above all, I believe you should never lose focus on what's truly important. Night At The Ballet, 8pm, Tuesday, March 30 at the Emirates Palace hotel.