Introduction from Alana:
Today, I welcome back a CLC regular – my friend, Susan Freeman, the author of Step Up Now: 21 Powerful Principles for People Who Influence Others, public speaker on the inner dimensions of leadership and 
executive coach to motivated, high-achieving leaders and influencers. Last month, I had the pleasure to reconnect with Susan during one of her visits to Kansas City. She was telling me about a hobby she picked up several years ago and its applicability to leadership and relationships. The hobby: Ballroom Dancing! It was such a fun story, I asked her to share it with the CLC community. Take a look and get ready to don your dancing shoes!
————————————————————————————————————-
Guest post from Susan Freeman, Founder and President, Step Up Leader
I’m passionate about ballroom dancing. What began as a curiosity seven years ago has blossomed into a life-long avocation. What appeals is the beautiful, diverse music, the chance to meet other like-minded folks, the connection with my husband, the terrific workout (both body and mind) and just plain fun.
As a leadership coach, I observe many parallels between ballroom dancing and leadership.
First, being an effective leader is a lot like leading a dance partner:
- Inner structure
- Connection
- Intuition
- Intention
- Endurance
Moreover, the essential skill we have often mentioned is that 93% of leadership influence that comes from the body, moods and emotions, rather than the words we speak. In other words, leadership and dance require excellent non-verbal communication skills. Let’s take a look at each element:
Inner Structure
In a dance partnership, the leader must have strong core muscles in order to hold the frame and guide his partner. He must understand the structure of a dance, and how to safely navigate around a crowded floor. In business, the leader must also have a strong core. He must have the inner navigation system to know where he is going and how to get there. The difference is that in business, the leader requires the help of many others to reach the goals; in dance there is only one leader and one follower.
Connection
In dance there must be a strong, non-verbal connection between the partners. The couple must each sense the strength and independence of the other, but look as if they are moving as one unit. This connection is 
easily observable, and is a hallmark of beautiful partner dancing. Leaders in business also must connect non-verbally if they are to be effective. Those who are aware of their moods and emotions and how they carry and employ them to motivate others, make the most effective influencers. The effective leader allows time and space for others to express their cares and concerns, and understands that…
“the right conversation in the wrong mood is the wrong conversation.”
Intuition
Intuition is an essential element of dancing well. A good leader can sense what is coming and plan for it, both in terms of the best moves for a particular rhythm, but also engaging with his partner in enjoyable ways. He must listen to his body, respect its signals, both in terms of energy and the inevitable aches and pains that come with dancing. Leaders must also have a heightened sense of intuition. Rather than charging to or away from others, the intuitive leader connects first to himself and makes the space for others to be heard.
Intention
Intention is a strong but often misunderstood word. Intention is a word that is felt and sensed in your body and in that of others. In dance, there is a point before the couple moves in which the man signals with his upper body with a very slight movement of chest expansion and breath that he is ready to move. It comes before any movement. It prepares for what is to come so both people are starting from the same place. In leadership, having clear intention is fundamental for getting effective results. If the leader lacks clear intention (or the ability to communicate it), the results will be sub-par.
Endurance
An essential ingredient for effective leadership both on and off the dance floor is endurance. You are in this for the long haul. You will have fast dances, slow dances, and some in between. Having the inner strength, both mental and physical to stay in the game requires training and supported habits that encourage consistent, sustainable performance.
To put these principles to work, ask yourself:
- Do I have a strong foundation and “core” for my influence skills?
- Do I connect easily and effectively with others?
- Do I access my intuition and encourage it in others?
- Do I act with clear intention towards my goals?
- Do I have the endurance to stay in the game no matter what?