This is a problem that plagues guys, and here are some points to remember that may help.

1. Many nice women without amnesia remember that they too, were beginners once. They won't mind dancing with you. One thing to remember is that after being put through spins, tunnels, trompos, windmills and coffee grinders, many ladies appreciate a bit of a rest. Doing simple moves also gives them a chance to style.

2. Excellent dancing is built upon a set of strong fundamentals. You may know only a few moves like basic step, the CBL, the simple turn and the CBL LT, but many moves are built on those and will be successful only if you master them. These are not simple moves. I find the hardest step, for which I've invested two whole private lessons, is the basic step. Practise these moves until you get them. And when you learn more moves, you'll do them ably, comfortably and correctly.

3. Many dancers know only 'a few moves' but do them beautifully. Believe it or not, these dancers find more favour with advanced ladies than the dancers who know 'many' moves but do them dangerously, painfully or desperately. Which makes the lady look worse?

4. The less you ask people to dance, the poorer a dancer you'll be. And then when you do ask someone to dance, you can guarantee that it will be bad. Start slow, master the 'few' moves your instructors show you, appreciate the nuances of footwork and the shifts in the music, and you'll progress.

5. Many people are afraid that people will be looking and pointing at them if they suck. Putting it bluntly, if you suck, no one is going to be looking at you. They'll be looking at the really good dancers. Forget about 'performing' and focus on just dancing.

6. Make friends with people. Don't just see ladies as people to do moves on, but! learn that even the salsamafia are human beings too. That way they'll seem less threatening, and you'll dance more freely and breathe more easily.

One last thing that is very personal to me: Gratitude. Once you get good, never ever forget the people who helped you get there by dancing with you when you started. Even if you eventually bypass them. And help other beginners too.

Viva la salsa!

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