Building Your “I Can” Muscle

From Nervous Steps to Soaring Confidence

This past weekend I celebrated Dragon Boat Festival with a quick trip to the beach. Standing on the sand looking at the water, I thought about how out of my element I had always felt at the beach, not having spent much time in the ocean growing up, never mind feeling self-conscious in a bathing suit!

As I turned to look at the mountains behind me, I noticed  paragliders beginning their launch towards the beach and was reminded of the time I dared to take that leap in Puli years ago. I wouldn’t exactly self-identify as a huge fan of heights or big risks. 

So, where did that confidence to try, to fly out of my comfort zone come from?

This whole month, I want to talk about confidence because it's so deeply linked to the transformative benefits I gained from dance – growing that internal muscle that whispers, "I can," "I'm willing to try," "I trust myself to show up for myself, apart from the outcome."

For me, stepping into my first Zumba class as a student I was nervous. I was unfamiliar with the moves and unsure of my fitness skills. Starting to teach? Even more nervous. Standing on stage, dancing in front of a huge crowd? Completely nerve-wracking. And watching back videos of myself teaching or in class? Yeahh… still not my favorite. 

But here's the magic: the music, the workout, the supportive smiles – they drew me in so strongly that I did the uncomfortable parts anyway. Craving a way to de-stress, a fun party vibe, a stronger body, a more active lifestyle, more connection, and a place to spend time on me, for me – these "whys" were powerful enough to quiet my self-doubt just long enough to fall in love with Zumba.

Looking back, each time I did something just slightly more challenging, I built confidence. And here’s the thing: confidence isn't a destination in my experience. To me, it's in flux as I continue to take on new endeavors that push me in new ways.

Sure, as I gain more experience and age, I find myself caring less about what others think. But almost every day that I lace up my sneakers, I'm reminded of how far I've come and how much more I feel is possible – in large part because I dared to step into that Zumba class for the first time and the mental, emotional and physical transformation that was sparked.

 If  you’re looking for more happy movement but something is holding you back, take some time to think of all that is drawing you in – all that your heart desires. Then, take one small step: be it watching a YouTube video at home, trying my Basic Beats class for beginners with no one watching, or joining an in-person class. 

Who knows what instrumental role Zumba steps may play in your own confidence and health journey!

Keep moving!

xx,

Katie

#zumbastory #confidance #confidencethroughdance #confidencethroughzumba