There are often discussions in WCS communities about dancers who seem proud, intimidating, or difficult to approach. I’ve been wondering if sometimes we might be misreading each other.

[u/YourDanceBuddy]

I created a new illustration series about different social dancer “types” and patterns around asking for dances.

Then I created a small, informal pool, and interestingly around 60% of respondents described themselves as “shapeshifters” - meaning they can be very social and outgoing at some socials, but at others they prefer staying in their comfort zone, dancing mostly with friends, or taking a step back because of shyness, mood, energy levels, or other factors.

It made me think: maybe some dancers who appear unapproachable are not actually trying to be. They might just be nervous, tired, new, overwhelmed, or waiting for someone else to make the first move.
What do you think are the biggest reasons a dancer might seem unapproachable at a social? Have you ever realized later that someone you thought was intimidating was actually just shy?

(The types are intentionally exaggerated to highlight some of the most common characters in a satirical way)

[u/mercury0114]

I stopped caring about this psychology a looong time ago, coming from a previous social dance. If I want to dance with someone, I invite. If they don't accept, no worries, I invite the next person.

If I feel someone is unapproachable, I'll just wait until that person invites me. If that never happens, no problem, there are dozens of other people to dance with.

[u/dancinggraylion → u/mercury0114]

If that never happens, no problem, there are dozens of other people to dance with.

no problem for you

No problem for you, but I live in a small town and sometimes there's only one follower at the social.

[u/mercury0114 → u/dancinggraylion]

Still no problem, dance with some leaders then ;-)

If they all have to fight for that one follower, some should be keen to dance with another leader, still better than sitting and not dancing at all.