'The Reality Check'
In this candid episode, Alisson Sandi and Gui Prada deliver a powerful "reality check" for dancers who say they want to improve but whose actions tell a different story. They expose the contradiction between wanting to be a great dancer and the behaviors that sabotage that very goal.
They begin with a simple analogy: you can't run a marathon by only reading about it. The hosts argue that many dancers are caught in this trap, "talking the talk" without "walking the walk." This is especially evident in a dancer's ability to adapt, a skill many say they want but struggle to achieve in practice.
Gui explains that this struggle often stems from a "fear of the silence"—an aversion to moments of pause or subtle movement where true connection can be built. He shares an anecdote about a leader in class who prioritized completing a movement over adapting to a partner's clear signals of non-compliance, highlighting how a rigid mindset can hinder growth.
Alisson introduces the concept of "100/100" dancing, where both partners bring their full selves to the dance, creating a dynamic conversation rather than a one-sided lecture. He shares his personal journey of learning to prioritize his own happiness in a dance, a crucial step for a sustainable and joyful experience.
The hosts offer actionable advice for dancers seeking to bridge the gap between their goals and their reality:
Ask for Feedback: Overcome the fear of rejection and ask dance partners for specific, constructive feedback on what they enjoyed.
Question Your Justifications: Be mindful of when you're justifying your actions to avoid trying a new technique. This "justification" is often a powerful limiting force.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your partner's body responds and adapt accordingly. A dancer who is "not happy" with your moves may not tell you verbally, but their body will.
This episode is a call to honesty, encouraging dancers to reflect on their own habits and commit to the small, consistent actions that lead to big results.
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Do you ever find your actions contradicting your dance goals? How do you overcome the mindset that holds you back? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!