Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ranjana Sharma. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ranjana, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
I have been very fortunate to have had family, friends and teachers in my life who helped me recognize my strengths and work on my weaknesses. Through my experience, I have come to realize that confidence and self-esteem does not come from being the best but rather from DOING my best. I prepare, I practice and I give it everything I have. If it works, great! If it doesn’t, I try and learn from my mistakes so that I do better next time. Oh, and stay humble because there’s always something new to learn. That’s what keeps life interesting!
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Ever since I was a child, I have loved dance and music. I have learned 3 styles of dance and I love learning about the cultures that the dance forms belong to. I also grew up in Africa and gained a wonderful exposure to many styles of art and culture.
After completing a Bachelors Degree in Engineering and a Masters Degree in Management, I joined the corporate life for work. While I enjoyed my job, there was no denying the stress from the long hours and deadlines. During that time, dance was my outlet and dance fitness my stress buster. I then decided to be a full time mother after I had my baby. I did not see myself returning to a corporate role at the time.
However, it was during this time that I dabbled with the idea about getting into dance fitness. I got licensed as a Zumba instructor, followed by a certification as a Group Fitness Instructor. I started by subbing classes and going to events to expand my network. Eventually, I landed my own class with a major gym and since then, there has been no turning back.
Now, I get to share my love of dance with people of all abilities and fitness levels. Every class is different and I approach every one of them with the same sense of excitement and nervousness, as I did on my first day! However, once my music is on, I’m in my zone! It’s a thrill and a joy every single time!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Here are my 3 tips to people starting a career:
1. Be open to learning and making mistakes: It is always fun to try something new. However, don’t expect to get it right the first time. Seek feedback and, if possible, find yourself a mentor who can guide you through your mistakes, so you can improve.
2. Network, network, network: I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to get the word out there about your abilities and your qualifications. Find events to attend. join communities and just let people know you’re willing to work. The more you increase your visibility in the market, the better your chances.
3. Above all, BE PATIENT: It can be frustrating at times to find yourself that one role you want so badly. But, don’t lose hope, keep doing what you’re doing, find ways to better yourself and everything will work out eventually.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I’m overwhelmed, I just give myself a break. I do another activity that refreshes my mind or I spend time with family and friends. If possible, I sleep! Nothing recharges my mind like a good night’s sleep. I can then look at my tasks at hand with new eyes and, perhaps, with a renewed sense of purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zumba.com/p/ranjana-sharma/915104
- Instagram: @rs_zumba_bollystyle
