I always, somehow, knew that I was going to dance.

Everyone has a talent. It's simply a question of good discipline, of the good fortune to have an education that meshes with that talent, and a lot of luck.

Creativity is a habit, and the best creativity is a result of good work habits.

The formal education that I received made little sense to me.

Whether it's a painter finding his way each morning to the easel, or a medical researcher returning daily to the laboratory, the routine is as much a part of the creative process as the lightning bolt of inspiration, maybe more.

Never worry that rote exercises aimed at developing skills will suffocate creativity. At the same time, it's important to recognize that demonstrating great technique is not the same as being creative.

I was privileged to be able to study a year with Martha Graham, the last year she was teaching.