More often than not, we find ourselves aiming to attain the next stage of progress as soon as possible. I, too, seek out quick progression journeys. However sometimes we just need to slow ourselves down so as to celebrate our achievements on this voyage. Every individual's physical and mental progression develops at very different paces. Don't beat yourself up for what you're unable to achieve today, for it might just 'click' for you tomorrow.

One story I always share with my friends and students in hopes that it could help them relate better to setbacks:

Back in those days when I was still a student in Level 5 (out of 12), it was the first time in my 1st year of pole journey that I could not attain a trick on the first attempt. I was the only one in class that could not get it, I was devastated. I felt like a catastrophic failure – because growing up in an Asian household meant that failures weren't tolerated. It was in week 1 that I experienced this defeat, and it was killing me internally all the way until week 7 when it finally 'clicked' for my body. Phew, the relief. But looking back, now I understand what my then Instructor meant when she said this phrase to us.

"Enjoy the process. We all progress at different rates, so do not compare yourself to others. You will get it one day."
~ Narelle Tobin (Physipole Studios, Carlton)

I hope this story would inspire you to keep going, trust the process, and enjoy your own personal journey.