Magna Gopal Embraces Rejection to Learn
Magna Gopal Embraces Rejection for Learning
What do you do?
I currently travel the world giving workshops and seminars on salsa dancing and improving human connection and communication.
Why do you do it?
Partner dancing, to me, is a microcosm for most of the relationships that we have on and off the dance floor. Instead of viewing the dance as just a simple movement of the body to music, I've learned that it's actually quite revealing in many other ways. I've learned a lot more about the psychology of communication, relationships, and other interpersonal dynamics as a result of studying the dance in more depth.
My desire is not only to teach and motivate people to be better dancers but also to inspire them to grow as individuals... in a manner that always retains a level of respect and compassion for others. – Magna Gopal
How did you start?
I got into dance as a hobby when I was studying in University. Initially, it was just a way to socialize, be creative, express myself, and be surrounded by beautiful music. As time has progressed, it's become much more fulfilling not only in terms of self-expression but also in terms of the deeper bonds of friendships I have developed across the globe.
Who do you do it for?
I travel and teach for myself, of course. For the opportunity to see the world and to enrich my life and my experiences. But a huge reason why I invest my time into this line of work is because I can have an impact on others and help them grow as individuals and dancers
What makes it unique?
Partner dancing is especially unique because it takes our contact-less world and makes it immediately intimate. Most people have jobs where physical contact is frowned upon. Partner dancing encourages it and rewards it by showing you how much deeper the relationship can go, and how much more you can learn about yourself and someone else. I find this opportunity quite rare in day-to-day life.
What do you love about it?
Human beings are fascinating! I'm always trying to learn more about how we interact, how we break through obstacles, how we communicate when there are differing points of view, and how at the end of the day we can make ourselves, and each other better. Dance has proven to be a great tool for discovery, self-exploration, and service to others.
How do you / does it make learning awesome?
By bringing the elements of self-development and human connection into every aspect of my teaching, I find it much easier to engage with my audience, invite them to participate meaningfully, and convey my message in a way that they will not only remember it but in a way that they feel compelled to explore it and apply it to their lives.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I believe we are constantly provided with numerous opportunities to grow and to help others grow. Curiosity and imagination can transform even the most mundane task or routine into something we can learn from and that provides value to others. It's not easy to step out of our comfort zones and explore the unknown, but I promise, at least through all of my experience, that it's one of the most rewarding things you can do.
