Dancing isn’t just about learning steps—it’s about letting go and enjoying the moment. But sometimes, our minds get in the way. We compare ourselves to others, worry about making mistakes, or feel embarrassed when things don’t go as planned.
Here’s the truth: embarrassment is self-inflicted. Your mind creates fear where there is no real danger. No one is judging you, and no one remembers if you fumble a step. But if you let that fear take over, you’ll miss out on the joy of dancing.
Your mind loves problem-solving. So, instead of letting it convince you that you are the problem, give it something useful to focus on—like a dance move, the rhythm, or simply having fun. Or better yet, shift the focus away from yourself entirely. Look around—see someone sitting out who looks like they’d love to dance? Take a moment to invite them onto the dance floor. Getting past your own fears to help someone else can be just the thing to remind you that dancing is about connection, not perfection.
Often, our fears come from linking dancing with performing. But at Lindy Jazz, we are not performing—we are social dancing. There is no audience, no pressure to impress, just a shared love for swing music and good company. That’s what we mean when we say we dance for fun.
Let’s put this into practice on 12 April at our Swing Dance Night with the Bright Street Big Band and DJ Andy. Step onto the dance floor, focus on the music, and remind yourself—there’s nothing to fear, only fun to be had!