Have you ever looked forward to a West Coast Swing party, only to feel a bit nervous as it gets closer? Maybe you wonder if you’ll remember the steps, or worry about losing the beat. I know I have! What’s meant to be relaxing can sometimes feel a little intimidating.
From talking to other dancers — some just starting out, some with more experience — I’ve noticed these feelings are pretty common. I’m not a professional, but I’d like to share a few things that have helped me (and maybe they’ll help you too). If you have your own tricks, I’d love to hear them!
The Dance Floor: Fun, Not a Test
“The harshest critic is often not in front of you, but within you.”
Sometimes, what starts as a fun hobby can feel like a performance, especially when we compare ourselves to others. I’ve caught myself thinking everyone is watching and judging — but most people are just focused on having a good time themselves. It helps to remember: we’re all learning, and nobody expects perfection.
Three Perspective Shifts That Helped Me Enjoy Dancing More
1. It’s a Team Effort
One thing I remind myself: West Coast Swing is always a partnership. It’s not a solo show, and nobody is in the spotlight alone. Most partners just want to have a nice dance together, not analyze every move. That takes a lot of pressure off!
2. Basics Are Great
I used to think I needed fancy moves to be a good dancer. But honestly, some of my favorite dances have been simple ones, where the basics just felt good and matched the music. A relaxed Sugar Push can be more fun than a complicated pattern that doesn’t quite work. Even my teachers say: focus on the basics, and the rest will come.
3. Every Dance Is Different
I’m still learning, but I’ve realized that every dance is a little adventure. Sometimes things go as planned, sometimes not — but that’s part of the fun. Social dancing isn’t about scores or being perfect; it’s about sharing moments and connecting with others. If you mess up, just laugh and keep going!
Letting Go of Pressure
Merce Cunningham said: “Dancing is a visible action of life.” I like that idea — dance is about living, not performing. West Coast Swing especially is about improvising and listening to each other. Philosopher Kimerer LaMothe writes that dance teaches us about ourselves and how we connect. I’m still working on this, but I’ve found that most partners remember how a dance felt, not the details.
Mistakes? Or Just Surprises?
One thing that’s helped me is thinking of “mistakes” as surprises. At a workshop, a teacher said: “There are no mistakes — just unexpected chances to be creative.” If a pattern goes differently than planned, it can lead to a fun moment or a new idea. Some of my best dances started with a mix-up!
A Little Trick I Use
Before I dance, I sometimes ask myself: “What if this dance was just about having a conversation, not putting on a show?” It helps me relax and focus on my partner and the music, instead of worrying about how I look. Dancing is a two-way street, and it’s okay to just enjoy the moment.
Wrapping Up
Some of my favorite dances have started with a mistake or a laugh. West Coast Swing, for me, is less about being perfect and more about having fun and connecting. I’m still learning, and I hope you’ll keep exploring too.
Just remember: Dancing isn’t a test — it’s a gift you give yourself. Every step, every beat, every smile counts.
Wishing you lots of relaxed, happy dances! 💃🕺
This article grew out of chats with dancers in our community. Thanks to everyone who shared their stories and helped me see things in new ways. If you have your own tips or stories, I’d love to hear them!