There’s a lot of interest in learning partner dancing. The truth is, whether it’s Ballroom, Swing, Latin, or Country, touch dancing is fun and popular. As a matter of fact, I don’t know anyone who doesn’t think social or competitive dancing is cool. So, if people want to learn to dance, what stops them? Sadly, the answer is fear. They’re afraid they can’t learn. Or, they feel awkward, off-balance, and just plain clumsy. Some are sure the other dancers and spectators will laugh and make fun of them.
With this in mind, here’s the solution – perseverance and good vibes.
Perseverance is important.
It doesn’t matter how talented you are. Learning to dance is the same as learning any other physical hobby or sport. It takes time. This is where perseverance comes in. Mobilize your stick-to-it-iveness and, as I like to say, “Enjoy the journey.” Learning to dance will take stubborness and bull-headed determination, but it will happen.
Having good vibes will help if you want to learn to dance.
Good vibrations work to eliminate the struggle. Undoubtedly, it’s an attitude that says, “No bad days” and “A day without dancing is like a day without sunshine.” You get the idea. This is where the power of positive thinking kicks in. You have the ability to use good thoughts and positive affirmations to get through any rough patches that might show up.
What can you do to get rid of negative feelings?
- Don’t hide it from your teachers. For starters, they won’t take it personally. Not only that, they’ll share their insight about how you can get your good vibes to work for you.
- Try talking with other students to see how they handle their dance insecurities. You’ll feel better when you get it off your chest. Furthermore, your friends may offer some good advice about their own past misgivings.
- Dance more. Attend more group classes and dance parties, or go a dance club with your dancing buddies. In addition, it’s a great idea to participate in a small studio Competition or Showcase recital. Also, why not try some online videos so you can practice at home. For example, here’s a Dance Safari post, “Free Online Bachata Course That’s Great for Beginners“.
The important thing to remember is this, you are not alone. When it comes to learning how to dance, everyone (and I mean everyone!) has gone through the same thing. There’s no other way to learn partner dancing but to do it. So, keep that in mind and dance more!
All great advice, Barbara, particularly having perseverance! Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will our dance ability. However, as you’ve said, with good vibes we can have an enormous amount of fun learning new skills.
Must tell you – K and I went to watch a comp last weekend. He hobbling about with a stick and a camera was such a joyous thing to behold. He so wants to get back on that floor… 🙂
xoxoxo
Thanks, Carolyn. It’s kinda nice to look back and see how far you’ve come.
Also, a big Whoop, Whoop! to the good news about both of you looking forward to getting back to dancing. Great news!
Barbara
Dance a little and write a little. That’s a nice combination you have here.