Life’s victories come in different forms, and true success lies in overcoming adversity, finding one’s purpose, and achieving it despite the odds. The ability to persevere in the face of challenges defines a truly successful individual. One such person who embodies this spirit of resilience and determination is Brittany O’Connor, a dance icon who defied the odds and forged her own path to success.
Growing up in a divorced family with a quadriplegic father, Brittany faced challenging circumstances. Her father raised his children as a single parent, defying all odds. Despite being told by the doctors that he would never be able to walk, compete, or even move again, her father competed on the American Wheelchair Rugby team and in world championships. His fighting spirit became a source of inspiration for Brittany.
Against All Odds: Brittany’s Journey to Professional Ballet
Brittany was told that she would never make it in the world of professional ballet. She was starting years too late than what is generally considered the perfect age for ballet. Being the determined fighter she was, Brittany went against everyone betting on her failure and achieved tremendous success.
“My biggest role model was my father. I saw him fight against the naysayers and grow up with the same mindset. When I came to the age of teaching and mentoring aspiring dancers, it came naturally,” said Brittany.
Her story is one of pure grit and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite naysayers, she pursued her dream of becoming a dancer. She became an internationally recognized artist and a travel nomad traveling over 70 countries.
Living Life on Your Own Terms: Brittany’s Philosophy
Brittany promotes the idea of fighting against the odds and living life on your own terms. As she said, “My business is myself. My vehicle is dancing. What I am selling or prompting is to fight for yourself and your life. We have one life.”
Brittany has dealt with depression and anxiety due to the late diagnosis of her actual disorders, specifically hypochondria and autoimmune disease. However, she doesn’t see depression as something to cure but instead as something to cope with and recognize triggers while having compassion for oneself.
“I want people to believe in themselves, that if they aren’t happy, it’s okay to make a change. If they feel like something in their health is wrong, but no doctor listens to them, keep fighting and find one that does. Because this is our life,” said Brittany.
Brittany believes in celebrating small steps because they lead to significant gains. She had to pave her own path and stand against society’s expectations. Her experiences have made her a better person and enabled her to help others. Brittany thinks that if she hadn’t listened to her inner voice and lived according to her standards, she wouldn’t have experienced what she had. She wouldn’t be able to have the empathy to understand others.
Brittany attributes her success to fighting for herself and her dream and going against society’s expectations of a successful life. Her journey from hypochondriac to hyper-successful inspires and motivates people facing unpleasant circumstances. If you want to know more about her, follow her on Instagram.
