Hey there, fellow singers! As a vocal coach, I’ve worked with a lot of amazing talent, and one thing that pops up for many of us is performance anxiety. I totally get it because I’ve been there myself. There were times when I felt like I had completely lost control of my voice because the shaking was so intense—it was like my body had been hijacked. Not a fun experience! Today, I want to share what’s worked for me—and some tips that might just help you, too.
Understanding Your Anxiety
First things first, it’s crucial to recognize and accept your anxiety. I’ve learned that feeling nervous before a performance is totally normal. Even with my experience, I’ve had moments where anxiety was overwhelming. Accepting that these feelings are part of the process has made them easier to manage and they have gotten better over time.
Preparation = Confidence
Being well-prepared is a game-changer. The more you know your material, the more confident you’ll feel. I used to rehearse like crazy and even performed in front of friends and family to get used to the pressure. It really made a difference!
Visualize It!
Visualization has been a lifesaver for me. Before a performance, I close my eyes and imagine everything going perfectly—seeing the audience enjoying themselves and myself staying calm and confident. It’s like a mental dress rehearsal that helps reduce anxiety and boost confidence.
Box Breathing (aka 4-4-4-4 Breathing Technique)
One technique I swear by is box breathing, also known as the 4-4-4-4 breathing technique. Here’s how it works: Inhale for 4 counts, hold your breath for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts, and then hold your breath again for 4 counts. I repeat this until I feel grounded. It’s a simple but powerful way to calm my nerves and get focused.
Earthing: Get Grounded
I love doing a bit of earthing before a performance. This means walking barefoot in the grass or dirt to feel more connected to the earth. It’s a great way to clear my mind and feel centered before hitting the stage.
Affirmations and Comfort Objects
Positive affirmations are part of my routine. I use them before and during my practice to keep my mindset positive. I also like to bring along a comfort object—maybe a crystal, a family heirloom, or a meaningful rock. It’s like having a little piece of home with me.
Create a Pre-Performance Routine
Having a pre-performance routine can really help. I do vocal warm-ups, some physical stretches, and whatever else helps me get into the zone. This routine makes me feel more in control and less anxious.
Practice in Different Places
If you’re new to performing, try practicing in different places outside your home. It helps your nervous system get used to different environments, making it easier when you perform in new settings.
Record Yourself to Improve
Recording yourself while you practice can be super useful. It lets you see how you’re doing, catch any mistakes, and track your progress. It’s a great way to build confidence and get comfortable with your material.
Embrace Imperfection and Celebrate Wins
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that no performance is perfect. Embrace the fact that mistakes might happen. Instead of stressing about them, focus on what went well and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.
Managing performance anxiety is something we all face, but with these tips and personal practices, you can turn those nerves into a powerful performance tool.
I’d love to hear from you! What are your go-to techniques for handling performance anxiety? Drop your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s help each other shine on stage!
Happy singing!
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