7 Ways to Overcome Stage fright
An infinite number of people are afraid to face the microphone. So many people feel their heart rates increase when they think about on-stage communication. However, the truth is, they can overcome stage fright by applying certain basic communication principles. Here are 7 simple basic steps which you can start applying today in order to overcome your fears and make your dream come alive:
1. VISUALIZE YOUR SUCCESS
Focus on the entertainment and enjoyment you are providing the audience. Close your eyes, take a deep breath and visualize the audience laughing, clapping and cheering. Never focus on what could go wrong. Visualize your success.
2. BE PREPARED
Nothing leads to stage fright more than the fear of forgetting lyrics or being unsure of your skills. If you are prepared, then you have no reason to be fearful.
3. DON’T FIGHT IT
Even with the best advice and pre-show rituals you will still experience nerves. Don’t fight it. Just breathe, accept it, and you will relax even more. If you fight your anxiety, chances are that it will get worse.
4. BREATHE
Taking deep breaths with eyes closed is a powerful tool in the fight against stage fright. Simply take 3 deep breaths to start and your body will calm down. In fact, numerous studies have proven that even just one session of deep breathing can significantly reduce anxiety. The feelings associated with stage fright are usually the strongest during the lead-up to the performance rather than during it, so take a minute to breath before heading out on stage.
5. FOCUS ON THE MATERIAL
The content of your performance is a powerful thing. Music or speeches can change the world. Many who experience stage fright have a negative inner critic that never stops. You don’t know what you’re doing. Your voice is not that good. The audience will hate me. This happens to most of us so be aware of that inner critic and turn your attention instead to the message you are about to bring to the crowd. You are about to teach them something amazing. They showed up to learn and be entertained. Concentrate on your content above all else, and you’ll avoid getting trapped in a negative state of mind.
6. MAKE CONNECTIONS IN THE AUDIENCE
Once on stage find friendly faces in the crowd and focus on those positive connections. Think of those people as your friend rather than your enemy.
7. LIMIT CAFFEINE AND SUGAR
On the day of the performance eat sensible meals and limit your caffeine and sugar intake. Both these things can increase and amplify anxiety.
CONCLUSION – GET OVER STAGE FRIGHT YOUR OWN WAY
The tips listed above won’t all work for everyone. Different brains respond to different things. It is important that you experiment and see which tips work best for you. Some musicians have to deal with performance anxiety and stage fright all throughout their careers. However, it is managing the stress and feelings that go with it that is far more important. You can transform the negative energy of nerves and anxiety into a positive buzz for performances. This is what many musicians end up loving most about their hobby or career.