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Building a new habit can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves committing to something as dynamic and expressive as dance.
The key? Start small.
By focusing on manageable, bite-sized actions, it will be really easy to start and build momentum. You might even end up dancing way more than you expected.
What the Experts Say
BJ Fogg, behavioral scientist and author of Tiny Habits, emphasizes the importance of starting with small, achievable actions to create habits that stick.
According to Fogg, aiming too high too soon can lead to burnout or frustration. Instead, it’s better to focus on small wins that build momentum over time.
When it comes to dance, this means letting go of the pressure to spend hours in the studio every day or mastering choreography overnight.
Instead, commit to dancing for just 5-10 minutes a day.
Even a short session of freestyle movement or practicing one move can build momentum and lay the groundwork for a consistent dance practice.
How to Apply It
Starting small doesn’t mean limiting your potential—it’s about creating a foundation. Here are three easy ways to take the first step:
- Play Your Favorite Song and Just Move
- Freestyle to the entire track. No structure, no pressure—just let the music guide your movements.
- For example, try dancing to a feel-good classic like “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars. Shout out to Phil Tayag from the Jabbawockeez and the rest of the dancers in this video for the fun vibes.
- Learn a Single Move
- Pick one dance move (like a groove, wave, or step) and practice it throughout the day.
- For instance, work on mastering the arm wave during your lunch break or try a simple front-back groove while waiting for the microwave.
- Take a Short Class
- Choose a short, beginner-friendly dance class or break a longer class into smaller chunks.
- For example, try learning some of these fun Dancehall Grooves class or tackle just the first part of the whole Beginner Dancehall Program. Celebrate each small milestone as you go.
Why It Works
Small actions are powerful because they’re approachable and easy to integrate into your life. Science backs this up:
- Neuroplasticity: Regular small actions help the brain form new neural pathways, making it easier to establish habits over time (source). By dancing a little each day, your brain begins to associate movement with positive reinforcement and routine.
- Dopamine Release: Short bursts of enjoyable activity, like dancing to your favorite song, trigger the release of dopamine—a feel-good chemical that reinforces habit formation (source).
- Stress Reduction: Even short bursts of movement lower cortisol levels and improve mood. Consistent physical activity reduces stress and supports emotional well-being, creating a foundation for better habits. (source).
The consistency of dancing, even for a few minutes a day, rewires your brain to view dance as a regular part of your routine. This foundation helps you naturally progress to longer or more challenging sessions as your confidence and skills grow.
Think of it like planting a seed. With regular care and attention, that seed will grow into something vibrant and strong. In the same way, your small daily dances can grow into a life-long habit that fills you with confidence and joy.
Ready to Start? Let’s Dance!
Here’s your challenge: Commit to 5 minutes of dancing today.
Put on your favorite song, find a move to practice, or try a short class.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about showing up.
Share your progress with us! Post your dance journey on Instagram or TikTok and tag us @steezystudio.
Looking for some inspiration? Check out our Beginner-Friendly Playlist to kickstart your journey. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your dance journey unfold in 2025!
What’s Next?
Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series: "Create a Dedicated Dance Space". Discover how your environment can inspire movement and make dance a natural part of your day!
If you found this helpful, let us know or want more advice, feel free to reach out to us at support@steezy.co!
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