When new members first step into a Lindy Jazz class, most begin in Stage One: Unconscious Incompetence. It’s that “I don’t know anything!” moment. You don’t even know what you don’t know, and that’s exactly where curiosity begins.
Stage Two is Conscious Incompetence. You realise how much there is to learn and think, “I still don’t know anything, but I’ll keep going.”
Stage Three is Conscious Competence: “Oh yes, I think I’ve got it.” You’re improving, but you’re still concentrating.
Stage Four brings a new awareness: “Oh my, there’s so much more to learn.” Instead of feeling overwhelmed, you start to enjoy the depth of it.
Finally, Stage Five is Unconscious Competence. You don’t have to think; you just dance. The music carries you, your body responds, and social dancing feels natural and free. Yet even here, the loveliest dancers keep a quiet curiosity. They notice, refine, revisit the basics and stay open, because there is always another layer of musicality, connection or style to discover.
A gentle reminder about Stage Three. When we feel we’ve “got it”, it can be tempting to think the basic moves are too simple or repetitive. In reality, practising the basics keeps your dancing clear, deepens your connection and helps you layer movements together with style. Working through this stage is often the moment your dancing becomes more creative and effortless. The journey doesn’t stop; it simply becomes richer.
At Lindy Jazz, you’ll always find people at different stages learning side by side. With new dancers and experienced dancers sharing the floor, we naturally adapt to one another. Experienced dancers grow in patience, clarity and musicality. Newer dancers build courage and confidence. Everyone develops connection.
This is social learning in action. We are not just learning steps. We are learning how to listen, respond, support and enjoy dancing with many different people. That social element is not an extra; it is central to becoming a truly great social dancer.
So, what stage do you think you’re at?
Who have you helped on your dance journey?
And who helped you when you first joined Lindy Jazz?
We’d love to hear your story.