Chapter 120
Getting Ready for the Grand Ball
On the thirty-first of December, New Year’s Eve, 1809 - 10 an old grandee of Catherine’s day was giving a ball and midnight supper. The diplomatic corps and the Emperor himself were to be present. The grandee’s well-known mansion on the English Quay glittered with innumerable lights. Police were stationed at the brightly lit entrance which was carpeted with red baize, and not only gendarmes but dozens of police officers and even the police master himself stood at the porch. Carriages kept driving away and fresh ones arriving, with red-liveried footmen and footmen in plumed hats. From the carriages emerged…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Map Your Own Performance Gaps
Think of a recent situation where you appeared calm and competent to others - a work presentation, family gathering, or social event. Write down what others saw versus what was actually happening behind the scenes in your preparation. Then identify one area where you regularly compare your messy preparation to someone else's polished performance.
Consider:
- •Consider how much invisible work goes into your own 'effortless' moments
- •Notice which people you assume are 'naturally' organized or confident
- •Think about how social media or professional settings hide the preparation chaos
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when you discovered that someone you admired was actually struggling behind the scenes. How did this change your perception of them and yourself?
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