Difficult questions.
One crack in your defense and your friends, family, and co-workers will start setting up their cross examination like they were Atticus Finch in the final courtroom scene.
Not anymore.
You've got questions, we've got answers.
"What Makes You Think You Can Dance?"
1. Sarcastic: "Um... Dance lessons?"
2. Sincere: "I know, it's crazy right? I didn't at all, but that's exactly the reason why I got started. If you'd like to give it a try, let me know and I can help you get started."
3. Standard: "If you take the time, bite the bullet, and schedule an appointment, anyone can learn to dance."
"Aren't Dance Lessons Really Expensive There?"
4. Sarcastic: "Yes, and so is jewelry at Tiffany's. Your point?"
5. Sincere: "I've invested in my family, my education, but this is the first real investment I've made to do something that truly makes me happy."
6. Standard: "This is the best ballroom dance school in the world, and you will keep this skill forever. Something that will last that long is an investment worth making."
"Where Are You Ever Going To Use Ballroom Dancing Anyway?"
7. Sarcastic: "Anywhere I want."
8. Sincere: "I'm starting with my high school reunion, a wedding reception, and a few local events the studio is putting on."
9. Standard: "Knowing how to dance unlocks dance opportunities that only dancers can see."
"Isn't Ballroom Dancing A Little Old Fashioned?"
10. Sarcastic: "You know what's really old fashioned? Standing around at bars."
11. Sincere: "Knowing how to dance is never old fashioned. It's timeless."
12. Standard: "The classic grace and charm is still there, but ballroom dancing has never been more popular."
"Since When Do You Have Free Time To Do Anything Fun?"
13. Sarcastic: "I didn't realize the fun police was monitoring my recreational endeavors."
14. Sincere: "I don't... and that's exactly the reason why this is perfect for me. A scheduled appointment that forces me to unplug and recharge."
15. Standard: "Everyone is busy, but people tend to find the time when they feel like the activity is worth the time. There is every kind of professional imaginable at an Arthur Murray Dance Studio, and they all feel recharged after a dance lesson."
"Aren't You A Little Old To Do Something Like That?"
16. Sarcastic: "Well, aren't you a little short for a stormtrooper?"
17. Sincere: "Listen, I put off too many things through school and my early professional years - and this is one of them. There are plenty of people like me, and the good thing - this isn't gymnastics where you're considered over the hill when you're 17."
18. Standard: "Ballroom and Latin dancing can be done socially or competitively at any age. Just like music, it's only the rare exception that begins as a toddler and continues into adulthood. The overwhelming majority of students start as adults and enjoy the hobby for a lifetime."
"Last Time I Checked You Had No Rhythm"
19. Sarcastic: "You might want to check again."
20. Sincere: "I felt exactly the same way, but the program and instructors I'm working with have shown me otherwise."
21. Standard: "Rhythm isn't a pass/fail. Anyone can learn to dance, no matter what they believe about their rhythmic abilities."
"Are You Trying To Be Like One Of Those Professionals On Dancing With The Stars Or Something?"
22. Sarcastic: "Personally, I prefer to dance with more clothes on."
23. Sincere: "I'm absolutely inspired by the turnaround the celebrities make, and I have a new appreciation for what they go through - but the pros teach dance for a living, I'm dancing for fun and the health and social benefits."
24. Standard: "Any hobby can be enjoyed as an amateur. Whether it's learning the guitar, ballroom dancing, or pole vaulting in the Olympics."
Sometimes the best strategy is to invite them in for a dance lesson. Or, at the very least, you can send them tips on How to Get Started with Ballroom Dance Lessons.
Your friends and family know you. They just don't really know the dance version of you.
No matter how frustrating they may seem, it's important to remember that questions are a way for people to show interest.
So don't get defensive.
Deep down, your transformation will show up with weight loss, happiness, and improved confidence. So even if they aren't fluent in dancing, seeing you better off is a language that any friend can understand.
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