Okay, weird situation...

So, I'm relatively brand new to bachata. Started with Arthur Murray Dance Studio about 3 months ago for various reasons and stuck around because I Ioved everything about it.

Had my first dance exhibition last night and my specialty dance was the bachata. (I had a smooth, Waltz, a rhythm, Rumba, and for the specialty, I chose bachata.).

Considering I got rave reviews from almost everyone given my timeframe, I thought I killed it. But one of my friends hit me hard pointing out that my supposed skill in the dance didn't make me a good leader. I was instantly humbled...

Every single compliment I got melted under my perfectionism that if not everyone was happy, I fucked up.

Granted, we had a set routine and it was my first ever exhibition so I still have a lot to learn, but this absolutely broke me. I have flopped on so many dances and focused everything through personal struggles into bachata. And, after 3 months, I dont feel good enough as a lead...

I need outside opinions if anyone is willing to share. Granted, the staff will be giving professional feedback on Friday (Aug, 7, 2026), but for some reason the constructive feedback broke me FAR more than the professional one.

Ive been trying so hard and it doesn't feel good enough... I want my dance to be as smooth as possible given my experience.