Things that happen quickly can be intense. So can things that are hard – emotionally, physically, or mentally. Sometimes we would rather avoid it, but intensity can be used for good. Intense learning situations that are expertly guided and well designed can produce unimaginable change and growth.
I experienced this early in life as part of the D.C. Crew, a series of residencies led by Savion Glover in the early 1990s. Then again more recently at the Cultivatorium – a three day intense coaching event designed by Renee Freedman. Both had focused and sustained intensity, and lead to major breakthroughs for me.
For the past 4 years I’ve organized a one week, 50 hour, tap dance intensive. We go deep. For a long time. We’ve witnessed awesome breakthroughs. And the learning continues far beyond the end of the week.
That’s the thing, isn’t it? Intense experiences stay with us. Design them for good and we just might change the world.