Performance anxiety, also known as stage fright, is a common fear that affects many performers. It can cause physical and emotional symptoms, such as sweating, trembling, a racing heart, and negative thoughts, which can interfere with the performer's ability to deliver their best performance. Fortunately, there are techniques and strategies that can help reduce performance anxiety and help performers overcome their fears.

1. Prepare thoroughly

   One of the best ways to reduce performance anxiety is to prepare thoroughly. This means practicing regularly and giving yourself enough time to prepare before a performance. The more prepared you feel, the more confident and relaxed you'll be on stage. Make sure to practice in a variety of environments, so you can get used to performing under different conditions.

2. Visualize success

   Visualization is a powerful tool for reducing performance anxiety. Spend time visualizing yourself performing well and feeling calm and confident on stage. Visualize yourself succeeding, and imagine the positive feelings and reactions from the audience. This can help reprogram your mind to associate performing with positive emotions and feelings.

3. Use positive self-talk

   The way we talk to ourselves can have a big impact on how we feel. Use positive self-talk to help reduce performance anxiety. Before a performance, remind yourself of all the hard work you've put in and the progress you've made. Tell yourself that you're prepared and ready to perform well. Use phrases like "I've got this" and "I'm going to do great."

4. Focus on your breathing

   Deep breathing is an effective way to calm your nerves and reduce anxiety. Take a few deep breaths before going on stage, and continue to breathe deeply throughout your performance. This will help slow your heart rate and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety.

5. Embrace the nerves

   It's normal to feel nervous before a performance. Instead of fighting the nerves, embrace them. Acknowledge that it's a natural response to a challenging situation, and that it's a sign that you care about your performance. Use the nervous energy to your advantage and channel it into your performance.

6. Shift your focus

   Performance anxiety is often caused by focusing too much on the negative outcomes, such as making mistakes or being judged by others. Shift your focus to something more positive, such as the music itself, the emotional connection you have with the song, or the joy of performing. This can help you stay present in the moment and focus on what's important.

7. Seek support

   Lastly, seek support from others. Talk to friends, family, or a mental health professional about your performance anxiety. They can provide emotional support and practical advice for reducing anxiety. Consider joining a performance group or taking voice lessons to gain more experience and confidence on stage.

Reducing performance anxiety takes practice and patience, but it's possible to overcome this fear and enjoy performing. By preparing thoroughly, using positive self-talk, and shifting your focus, you can perform confidently and connect with your audience.

If you need help overcoming performance anxiety or want to improve your singing skills, consider working with a voice coach. As a functional voice trainer, I can help you develop healthy vocal techniques and build confidence on stage. Contact me for a free Discovery Call to see how I can help you achieve your performance goals.