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Living and Learning

In recent weeks I’ve been reminded of how important it is to keep on learning. One such reminder came while dining at the glorious reception celebrating the marriage of Shiri Sarfati (Repechage) and her new husband Lawrence. I had an opportunity to have a “keep on learning” conversation with Paul Dykstra. Paul is the executive director of America’s Beauty Show in Chicago. If you’ve visited the show, I’m certain you’ll agree he organizes a first-class event.

by Ann Mincey
July 11, 2011
2 min to read

A little-known fact in our industry circles but not in the greater Chicago area, Paul Dykstra is a concert pianist! Accomplished and experienced, he's accompanied and performed with orchestras, in venues large and small, with big names and up-and-comings.

What shocked me during our conversation was Paul's reference to his piano teacher. "Your teacher?" I asked. "You mean you still take piano lessons?"

"Oh yes! She's a perfectionist, very exacting and pushes me to be better at every lesson. I always keep on learning."


Paul with his teacher, Saori Chiba

Isn't it interesting how I thought that once Paul achieved a level of proficiency playing piano he'd be spared from having to run scales or practice chords.

Relating this to your business, I wonder, do you have a mentor, someone you supremely respect, to whom you can be accountable and meet with regularly to check your work or your business acumen or your attitude and appearance? Where would you go to find someone like that, how would you approach them, what would be the benefit if you do?

I'm sure by working with a mentor you'll find your work more exacting. In becoming more proficient you become more confident. Confidence breeds successful experiences. Successful experiences result in a business that's thriving and a life that thrilling.

Keep on learning ... concert pianist Paul Dykstra is!

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About Ann Mincey
For 35 years, Ann Mincey's training programs have helped beauty professionals reduce stress, refuel creativity, open their hearts and enrich their lives. As one of the first women to teach motivation, inspiration, confidence and well-being, Ann worked for Redken 5th Avenue NYC, where she advanced to Vice President of Global Communications before recently retiring. She remains a spokesperson for the brand, in addition to developing her own speaking and enrichment business. Having been recognized with numerous leadership awards and philanthropic honors, Ann is a sought-after public speaker and author of "Get Glowing! You are a Star Right Where You Are!". She can be booked through Equanimity, Inc. speakers' agency (equanimity.com). Salon industry inquiries should be made to amincey@redken.com.

Topics:In The KnowIndustry News

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