We recently connected with Daien Harris and have shared our conversation below.
Daien, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
To learn to teach, I had to be a student for a very long time. Not just any student though; a humble student. They say to become a great leader, you must learn how to follow first. I’ve been in dance classes and dance-learning environments since my sophomore year in high school. I’m 32 now, so that shows the amount of time it took. Having the opportunities to grasp concepts of how to implement one’s purpose and style in their teaching has made a significant impact on my becoming an instructor of my own Dance classes.
I don’t feel there’s anything I could have done to speed up the learning process. I’m in a space in my life where I accept that time works differently for each of us. If I hadn’t have taken the time I did to sit back and learn more about myself, without rushing the process, I don’t believe I would feel as fulfilled as I do with the work I am doing. I’m still learning so much, as there’s always room to grow. But for now, I’m embracing the things I’ve learned thus far to get me here.
Patience has been the most essential skill I’ve grown to master; and it shows in each and every class I teach. As I mentioned earlier, we all learn at our own paces; and there are some environments that cater to that, and there are others that do not. I wanted to provide a comfortable space where every woman could feel as amazing as I do when I’m able to allow my body to flow however it feels best, and not feel bad about it. The patience comes in when you realize everything doesn’t have to be perfect!
That’s another thing I’d like to point out: although learning imperfection is perfectly okay has become more of a personal perspective, it’s also turned into a skill I’ve incorporated into my classes. The empowerment it instills in my students is mind blowing, because they never get discouraged enough to quit, and only more excited to keep going in the class. It’s a liberating experience to witness.
Daien, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Well, “Dai-Moves Dance Co.” was established in 2018. My friends would always make light and joke about how much I would randomly do dance moves in odd places. They would catch me break out in these small dance moves in grocery stores, while taking a walk, at the dinner table, you name it. So, any time my cousin would see me she’d say “Dai be movin!”. She’s the best hype-man ever! That is how Dai-moves was born.
From there I wanted to figure out how to get the ball rolling. It had always been a vision of mine to help women feel comfortable in their own skin while learning my dance moves. I used to HATE (and yes I used the word “hate”) taking dance classes. It has nothing to do with the instructors, but everything to do with me. I would almost always feel not good enough after each class, because I’m such a slow learner. I knew going to classes was the only way I’d be able to remain in shape and do what I love; so I would force myself to go. But what fun is that?! I wanted to change my own outlook on what I knew was a beautiful thing.
It only made perfect sense to collaborate with my cousin’s business “Birthday Suit Shop”. I needed a helping hand, and was not entirely confident in implementing my business in the beginning. It made perfect sense, because her online swimsuit boutique encouraged body positivity and self-love; which was aligned with what I wanted my business to represent as well.
We started hosting dance classes together, did one video dance class and the creative energies began to flow from there. The feedback was so positive, and it only encouraged me to want to do more when the time came.
Then the time came, and I finally decided to take that leap of faith and do things my own way.
I didn’t focus on a structure or plan, oddly enough. I simply did what my mind and heart set out to do. I started posting more creative dance videos on Instagram, and eventually thought of the idea to bring my “Hot Mamas’” Dance classes to life.
This class has been such a highlight in the continued growth of my dance career. I feel accomplished after every class, no matter how many students show up, because after every class my students leave with the biggest smiles on their faces. My classes are filled with laughter, building of confidence, and an all-around exhilarating time.
It makes me feel proud to remind women of all ages, shapes and heights that they have the sauce! Even if you feel like you “can’t dance”, you can do something with me. I’ve challenged myself to put together fun, sexy two-step dance moves that almost any woman can do.
The best part is, there’s so much more coming!
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My goal is to share this experience with women in every state across America. I could only imagine what a difference it may make if more women around the world felt as empowered and as beautiful as the women I teach do after attending my classes. Who knows? I do think it could make an impact in the world, even if it’s a small one.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is seeing your vision come to fruition. There are so many things in life we have very little control over. When it come to creativity, however, it feels like you have a lot more control in how it turns out than you would with anything else. It’s your way, or no way.
I think that’s why artists like Frank Ocean, 6lack, H.E.R and Jhene Aiko speak to me so much; because they don’t seem to bend to what is needed commercially, and just about anything they touch is GOLD! They stay true to themselves and what they want for their vision. I strive to do the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.daimovesco.com/
- Instagram: dai_moves
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@dai-moves4853
Image Credits
Carrington Tucker Photography