When You Go Out, You Should Actually Dance

Going out is simple — it consists of listening to music, socializing and dancing. It’s pretty straightforward, actually. Unfortunately, it has come to my attention that what y’all consider dancing is wildly disappointing — all because you’re afraid of judgment.

Let me clarify: Nodding your head and frat-flicking is not dancing. I’m sorry to burst your bubble if you thought it was. What happened to breaking it down? You’re telling me that we ditched break-dancing, popping and locking and the boogie for a basic head nod and a little flick of your fingers? Are you kidding me?

I’m not asking you to learn how to do the tango or pirouette in the middle of the dance floor; I’m asking you to move yourself instead of standing there like a dweeb.

“I think it’s kind of weird when people go out and they don’t dance or move to music, especially if it's in an environment where the music is central,” said Fischer Smithey, a business major.

I completely agree. Weddings, bars and concerts are common examples of great places to dance, so let loose and stop caring what other people think. Why even go out to a place with loud music if you’re just going to stand there? Stop worrying about what you look like and just dance; it's not that deep.

I think society has shifted away from dancing to avoid potential embarrassment. There is a conception that if you dance too much or too intensely, people will judge you, but that says more about them than it does about you.

“I feel like people have a fear of dancing,” said Elena Garni, a business major.

“Some people aren’t comfortable dancing in public, but you know, I don’t really care. You can judge me, but I don’t really care,” said Matthias Tucker, a film and photography major. This is the mentality we should all have.

When you go out, I don’t expect you to break it down to your fullest potential the entire night — I can’t even do that. Taking breaks with a drink or taking time to socialize is awesome. However, if you’re going to dance-heavy events just to socialize, I suggest you reroute to a different location. If you’re interested in someone at this type of event, you should ask them to dance — an underrated pickup, if you ask me. This way, you’re socializing and dancing; it’s a win-win.

“I personally love to dance no matter where I am,” Garni said. Amen, sister. Whether I’m bowling a strike, eating delicious food or washing dishes, I’m dancing. Even in times that aren’t as exciting or filled with positive emotions, I’m movin' and groovin'! It doesn’t hurt to dance when you're sad, angry or just generally upset either.

Dancing is not embarrassing, and you are certainly not too cool for it. Next time you go out, I encourage you to let the music guide your moves. Have fun, shake your culo and live a little. I know you’d kill it on the dance floor if you let it happen.