Gender imbalance can be frustrating. It can spoil an otherwise interesting class experience. If you let it, that is.
If there aren't enough leaders or followers at an event, some people will end up 'sitting out' when they would rather be dancing. Being on the wrong end of the gender imbalance is disappointing, especially if it happens frequently in your community.
I realize that this is a small consolation, but an imbalanced class or event can serve as a learning opportunity. It's a golden opportunity to experience the complimentary role - to lead if you are a follower, or to follow if you are a leader.
This suggestion is not always met with enthusiasm. "I don't want to learn the other role. I'm happy being a follower (or leader)." Some folks don't say the words, but they thinking it.
But please consider this idea carefully. The objective is not to become an expert at the complimentary role, but rather to gain perspective through the experience.
It's important to understand what our partners feel when we dance with them.
Most people will remain dedicated to either leading or following, and that's absolutely one-hundred percent acceptable. But experiencing the other role can still be a valuable exercise. Please consider the insights that you stand to gain.
Perspective for Leaders
Here are some things that a leader might discover while attempting to follow.
- The "in the moment" mindset that effective following requires
- The critical role of balance in following
- The feeling of being knocked off of your axis unintentionally
- The importance of proper technique in the molinete (turn)
- The joy of being led with clarity and sensitivity
- The joy of being led musically
- The confusion that an unclear lead produces
- The heartbreaking and all too common frustration of being blamed for a leader's mistakes
Perspective for Followers
Here are some things that a follower might discover while attempting to lead.
- The challenge of traffic management
- The frustration of trying to lead one thing and seeing something else happen
- The differences between a follower with good stability and one who clings to you to maintain their balance
- The differences between a responsive follower and one who is not as well "tuned in" to the lead
- The limits that a follower enforces when her steps are too small
- An appreciation for the impact of good (or bad) molinete technique
The Ultimate Payoff
Once we understand both the joys and the challenges of the opposing role, we tend to become more accepting and appreciative of our partners. We understand how we might want to adjust our own technique in order to provide partners with more of what they enjoy and less of what they don't.
In the end, this exercise is not about gaining expertise in the unfamiliar role. It's about gaining expertise in your regular role. Leaders with experience in following become better leaders, and vice versa.
So, the next time this veiled opportunity presents itself, embrace it. As some patient person if they would mind letting you exercise your unfamiliar role with them for a song or two. The insights that you'll gain will be worth the effort.
¡Buena suerte, amigos, y muchas gracias!
Daniel
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