Swing Dancing Saved Me from Social Anxiety and Helped Me Build Community

When I was growing up, social anxiety made everything feel overwhelming. Going anywhere by myself was so stressful, and I didn’t have many friends, which made everything harder. I often felt awkward and unsure of who I was or where I belonged. In 2016, after a major life transition—a heartbreaking breakup that resulted in the loss of friends and dreams—I felt more isolated than ever. That’s when someone recommended I check out the Dordt University Swing Dance Club. It seemed like a big step—scary and intimidating—but I decided to give it a try. I thought, 'I love to dance, I’ve taken classes, and was even captain of my dance team in high school—this should be something I can do.'

After countless conversations about how I wasn’t a student but proudly declared myself a self-defined swing dance major, I slowly started to connect with a group of freshmen who, like me, were looking for friendship. This is the power of swing dancing—it pushes you to step out of your comfort zone, ask someone for a dance, engage in conversations, and build confidence as you learn something new. That experience changed my life in ways I never could have imagined.

If you feel insecure about who you are, I want you to know this: You are worthy of friends, fun, and fellowship. You have incredible value. You deserve to be part of a community where you are celebrated and supported, just as you are. It’s not always easy, but taking that first step can change everything.

My husband and I actually grew closer because of my dancing skills. He had to learn how to waltz for a performance in Beauty and the Beast, and because I knew how, I was assigned to teach him. Seriously, our story is as classic as "tale as old as time"! Not only did I meet my husband, but some of our best friends are people we met on the dance floor! Now, they’re our best friends for life.

The swing dance community we are building at Midwest Swing Dance Co. is rooted in the values of welcoming everyone, making sure no one feels left out, and treating everyone with God’s love. I can honestly say that if it weren’t for swing dance, I wouldn’t have the friends I have, the community I’m growing, or the joy in my life that I do. I no longer fear walking into a room alone, saying yes to a dance, or introducing myself to someone new. Swing dancing changed my life, and it could change yours too!

If you want to learn to dance with us and you’re in the NW Iowa area, we would love to have you join us! And if you’re not nearby, we also offer an online class and would be happy to help you find your local dance community! Here's the link to our online class!

-Courtney Johnson | Founder, Owner & Lead Instructor at Midwest Swing Dance Co.