There are numerous performers out there of varying skill and experience levels who regularly have to deal with performance anxiety. To overcome performance anxiety you have to acknowledge where it comes from and find ways to turn your nerves and adrenaline into positive forces. Once you’re able to pinpoint the cause of your anxiety, you can take charge of it.
Some of the most common fears are: cracking during the performance and not being able to hit the high note; looking stupid in front of friends; forgetting the words to the song; fearing success or failure, rejection, or the unknown. When you name or pinpoint your fear you can take the necessary steps to beat it. When you understand the problem, take the time to deal with the source of your fear as opposed to just the symptoms.
When you have an adrenaline rush in the body, it results in a racing heart. To create a similar effect, run in place until you’re out of breath and then try to sing your song. When you practice out of breath you will get used to singing phrases where you just want to exhale and quit singing. When you endure breathlessness it’s similar to the issues that occur during your anxiety attack in the middle of a performance. Your breaths will feel like they are falling into your body. It is important to understand that even when the heart is pounding, you can sing. It may not be the easiest thing to do, but it is possible.
Did you know thousands of people have this feeling right before a performance? Whether it’s butterflies, shaky knees, a sudden dry mouth, the urge to run, shaky hands, nausea or many other issues, any one of them can surface.
Most singers assume they should be calm and collective before a performance, but for most people it’s just not the case and believing they should be only increases the anxiety.Expecting to be nervous and jittery, on the other hand, can enable you to sing through your anxiety. In fact, you can use the fight-or-flight excitement of adrenaline coursing through your body to enhance your performance. Just by reframing the thought process and acknowledging your nerves, will allow you to seize the opportunity and improve your performance.
For tips for singing live and great ideas on how to build singing confidence, check out these helpful online singing lessons .