In a world where social media thrives on showcasing our highlights and filters often obscure our flaws, the idea of stepping into a dance class can feel intimidating. It’s not just about mastering the steps or impressing others with our skills; it’s about embracing the discomfort, vulnerability, and growth that come with it.
STRUT or any dance class isn’t for attention; it’s for intention. It’s about learning how to feel more confident, exploring new movement, advancing our skill sets, building community, and of course, having fun. Yet, many of us approach dance classes with the subconscious desire to showcase what we already know rather than embracing the opportunity for growth.
Training classes, in particular, can feel uncomfortable because they confront us with what we're not strong at. Instead of shying away from these discomforts, we should lean into them, understanding that the point of these classes is growth, not perfection. It's about pushing our boundaries, honing our skills, and discovering new facets of ourselves as dancers.
But why does the idea of exposing our weaknesses in a dance class evoke such fear? It's the fear of being found out, the fear of not meeting expectations, and the fear of judgment from others. We're so conditioned to seek validation and approval that we avoid putting ourselves in vulnerable situations where our imperfections might be exposed.
However, true growth lies in embracing vulnerability. It's about acknowledging our weaknesses, confronting them head-on, and using them as stepping stones towards improvement. In the words of Brené Brown (our queen mother lol), "Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change."
In dance class, vulnerability manifests itself in various forms – from struggling to master a new technique to feeling self-conscious about our physical appearance. Yet, it's precisely these moments of vulnerability that pave the way for growth. It's in the willingness to experience discomfort that we find the courage to push ourselves beyond our limitations and reach new heights as dancers AND humans.
And even more than that, dance class isn't just about individual growth; it's also about fostering a sense of community and support. In a nurturing environment where everyone is on their own journey of self-discovery, judgment takes a back seat, and encouragement becomes the focus. It's about celebrating each other's successes, empathizing with each other's struggles, and lifting each other up along the way. Remember, we are in this together!
So, how can we cultivate a mindset that embraces discomfort for the sake of growth in dance class?
1. Firstly, we must shift our focus from seeking attention to fostering intention. Instead of fixating on how others perceive us, we should concentrate on our own journey of self-improvement. By setting clear intentions for each class – whether it's mastering a specific technique or exploring a new style or putting ourselves out there– we can channel our energy towards meaningful progress.
2. Secondly, we must reframe our perception of discomfort. Rather than viewing it as a sign of failure, we should see it as an opportunity for growth. Every stumble, every mistake, and every moment of uncertainty is a chance to learn, adapt, and evolve as dancers.
3. Lastly, we must cultivate a supportive and inclusive dance community where vulnerability is celebrated rather than shunned. By fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and encouragement, we create a safe space where dancers of all levels can thrive and flourish.
At the end of the day, dance class isn't about seeking attention or showcasing our skills; it's stepping outside our comfort zone and learning to take up space - not only in the studio, but in our lives, too. So, the next time you step into a dance class, remember – it's not about being perfect; it's about being willing to experience discomfort for the sake of growth.
And remember that no matter what … we have your back 👠