How To Be A Winner When The Odds Are Stacked Against You.

How a Blind Comedian Danced Their Way to Stardom (and Inspired Us to Crush Our Own Goals and Aspirations)

As the glittery confetti settled on the dance floor, the nation collectively gasped, cheered, and maybe spilled their wine as Strictly Come Dancing crowned its latest winner: a blind stand-up comedian, the incredible Chris McCausland. That’s right—someone who can’t see their own reflection in a glitter ball waltzed, sambaed, and cha-cha-ed into our hearts. Talk about putting the "step" in stand-up.

Diane and Chris Lifting the Winners Glitterball !! Strictly Come Dancing Winners.

Now if you didn't watch the programme, you might be wondering how a blind person managed to conquer a show that literally revolves around dancing. Surely they couldn’t even see their partner, let alone the judges’ exaggerated eyebrow raises. But that’s the beauty of it: they didn’t need to. Armed with determination, humor, and what can only be described as some seriously intuitive footwork, they outdanced everyone who could see where they were going. Also a mssive shout out to the fabulous Diane Buswell, not only a spectacular dancer, but it's very clear that she is also and incredible teacher and communicator.

Their secret? Trust. Trust in their partner, trust in the process, and perhaps most importantly, trust that the audience would laugh with them, not at them, when they inevitably tripped over a rogue feather boa. (Spoiler: they didn’t. Not once.)

Of course, being a stand-up comedian, they didn’t just win on skill alone. Week after week, they brought the house down with self-deprecating quips. “I might be blind, but at least I don’t have to see Craig’s face when he gives me a 4!” they joked after a particularly daring tango. But again hats off to the programme and the pairing of Chris and Diane, they didn't take the easy route by playing just for laughs that we've seen before, (I don't know about you, but that approach has got old...) they took it completely seriously. Also in fairness to the other amazing contestants, Chris wasn't the best dancer, he was extraordianarily accomplished, but his grit and determination drew the nation in.

Lessons in Resilience (and a Bit of Sass)

So what does this tell us as we teeter on the edge of a new year, clutching our list of resolutions like they’re a winning lottery ticket? It’s simple: if a blind comedian can dance their way to glory on national TV, then surely we can stick to our goals for at least, say, two weeks?

Here are a few takeaways to keep in mind:

1. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Whether it’s learning to dance without sight or finally giving up your third daily coffee, growth only happens when you’re a little bit uncomfortable. Or in their case, when you’re doing a foxtrot blindfolded. If trust in yourself that you can do whatever it is that you've set your mind to. Let's face it, we've all got evidence of past failures, treat them as learning. But we all need a little help to access the Secret Sauce of Success - Health Coaching is great for that, trust me, to let me support you with your aims and goals.

2. Laugh Through the Setbacks: If you trip (metaphorically or literally), make a joke, get back up, and keep going. If they can crack a joke mid-spin, you can definitely chuckle your way through failed gym selfies or burnt kale chips.

3. Trust the Process: Whether it’s your dance partner, your trainer, or the Google search results for “how to meal prep,” lean into the journey, even when it feels impossible.

4. Remember Your ‘Why’: They didn’t enter Strictly just to win—they did it to prove a point, inspire others, and, let’s face it, probably to annoy Craig Revel Horwood. What’s your reason? Write it down. Stick it on your fridge. And maybe add some glitter for motivation.

   
   

A Sparkly Start to 2025

As the clock ticks toward midnight and you start making (or avoiding) your resolutions, remember this blind comedian’s journey. Chris didn’t let a lack of sight stop him from dancing, so why should you let fear stop you from chasing your dreams?

Sure, you might stumble, but you’ll stumble forward. You might even face criticism, but hey, at least Craig won’t be scoring your efforts. So, put on your metaphorical (or literal) dancing shoes, channel your inner cha-cha champion, and let 2025 be the year you twirl your way to success.

And who knows? Maybe next year, it’ll be you in the spotlight—not on Strictly (unless you’re hiding some serious moves), but in your own life, shining brighter than a sequined costume under a disco ball.

Sparkle and Shine as YOU Celebrate Success