What Dancing and Coaching Have in Common: Zumba Edition

Let’s talk about something near and dear to my heart—learning Zumba. Now, here's a little secret: I may be Latina, but when it comes to Zumba, I have two left feet! But guess what? That hasn't stopped me from finding the beauty in embracing my own unique moves and laughing at myself along the way.

In fact, my Zumba flubs have taught me more about the power of relationships and the pressures of expectation than many of my professional experiences. And they serve as a great lesson for anyone who has ever been afraid to step, or dance, outside your comfort zone.

So, c’mon, I invite you to groove with me to our own special beat!

People Power

Picture this: I step into a Zumba class, fully aware of the stereotype that Latinas are supposed to be natural-born dancers. As the music starts and the instructor effortlessly moves to the rhythm, I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and insecurity.

"Am I going to embarrass myself?

“Can I really break free from the dancing expectations placed upon me?"

But let me tell you something—we're allowed to make mistakes, defy stereotypes, and embrace our own journey.

Zumba has challenged me on a lot of levels—even making me question the Latina norms that have shaped me since birth.

But our expectations don’t define us. Neither do our fears.

In fact, the reason I’ve continued to show up week after week to trip over my own feet is because of an instructor who is enthusiastic and caring—and most importantly, knows how to create a “safe space.” She doesn’t minimize when we fail (or fall), and she offers unwavering support.

In so many ways, the relationship she creates is like that of an executive and a leadership coach. Because that’s what I always do for my clients: create a place without judgment where people can express themselves to help them become who they want to be.

That’s what I love about this work—and I can’t help but see the connections between learning new Zumba choreography and hitting the mark with the “aha” moments clients experience when we uncover their strengths, driving motivators, and what’s holding them back.

Together, we choreograph the right steps to move through all of their challenges and obstacles to create something that’s bold, beautiful, and fulfilling.

Stronger With Each Stumble

Just like Kelly Clarkson sings in her hit song, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger," each awkward step and misaligned move I make is a testament to my resilience. Every time I stumble or struggle to catch the beat, I find joy in the fact that I'm living authentically, breaking free from the mold that society expects me to fit into.

Because, true strength lies in embracing who we are, even when it doesn't align with what society expects.

As I continue my Zumba journey, something magical happens. With each salsa shuffle or merengue twist, I find beauty in my own unique style. I may not move like a professional Zumba dancer, but I've learned to embrace the joy of laughter and celebrate the process of learning.

Through every misstep, I grow more confident in my ability to dance to my own rhythm and find joy in the journey itself.

Remember, it's not about meeting expectations or fitting into stereotypes—it's about embracing our authenticity, celebrating the beautiful diversity that makes us who we are, and surrounding ourselves with people who help us see it, too.

Keep thriving, laughing, and dancing!

Denise Musselwhite is a tech executive turned leadership coach, speaker, and strategist. After 25 years in the tech industry, she founded Tech & Thrive, a coaching and consulting practice that provides personalized coaching solutions to help women and diverse professionals in tech overcome the hidden barriers holding them back. Learn more about Denise and her coaching at denisemusselwhite.com.