Part One
When you begin ballroom dancing, it can be difficult to not compare yourself with other dancers. When Dan and I started ballroom dancing, let’s just say, we looked like beginner dancers. We were not smooth. We most likely counted every beat. We looked at our feet. We were stiff. We were quite clunky at best.
With any skill you learn, everyone has to start somewhere. It is always at the beginning. It takes, maybe close to 300 hours of practice to show you know what you are doing. Yikes!
At a few of Dan and my first dance outings, we had couples ask us, “Are you new to dancing?” We were thinking, it must have looked quite obvious. Dan and I would try to find a dark corner of the dance floor so we could practice our steps. We would hide from as many dancers as we could.
Then we would see a couple who have been dancing for years. They looked amazing! Wow! They were so smooth. They did so many cool dance steps. All of a sudden, I would become even more dissatisfied with my dance skills. I wanted to hide even more.
I was comparing myself with them and it made our dancing not as much fun anymore.
I knew to be more content with my own dance skills I had to remember:
- There are all skill levels of dancers, some with natural talent
- With hard work, you will get better
- The more time and effort you put into dancing-the better we will become
- Remember why we are dancing
Focusing on Dan and remembering why I was there would help keep dancing enjoyable. Even as a beginner.
God’s Word-Galatians 6: 4-5
Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.
Dance With Me Ministries 