The more you watch “Dancing With the Stars,” the more you see great connections to coaching and practice. Here are at least five:

* All contestants have exactly the same amount of time to get ready for the next show. It’s what you do with that time that matters. So the mental game is huge.

* Improvement depends on three things: The way the practice is designed, the way the coach gives feedback, and the way the celebrity accepts feedback.

* You’ve got to let it happen. Kirstie Alley, despite her struggle with weight, knows how to perform. She goes all out, no holding back.

* What matters is now. You can always improve on yesterday, and you better not rest on your laurels. The most important performance is today’s.

* Attitude is everything, whether with your partner, the judges or the audience.

Can you think of others?