Stage Fright

Do you feel that you often lose your words or your hands start shaking when you need to speak in front of a crowd? If your answer is ‘yes!’, then you probably have stage fright. It is also known as performance anxiety. It is a common problem not only for ordinary people but also for many famous athletes, actors and musicians.

The first step to overcoming stage fright is acknowledging the fact that you do not need to prove yourself to anyone. Accept the fact that nobody is perfect and that you do not have to try to be perfect. The second step is to learn to control your negative thoughts, beliefs and predictions about performing in public. Of course it is easier said than done but there are some tips you can definitely benefit from:

1. You should be prepared, so you had better practice as much as you can.

2. You should not have much caffeine or sugar the day of the performance. It is advisable to eat some kind of food that gives you energy. For example, a low-fat meal including complex carbohydrates: whole-grain pasta, lentil soup, yogurt, or a bean and rice burrito are all good choices.

3. Focus on the enjoyment you are providing to the spectators. Close your eyes and imagine the audience laughing and cheering.

4. Focus on the positive, not what could go wrong. Visualize your success.

5. You could also practice controlled breathing, meditation, biofeedback, and other strategies to help you relax and redirect your thoughts when they turn negative.

6. Take a walk, jump up and down, shake out your muscles, or do whatever feels right to ease your anxious feelings before the performance.

7. Connect with your audience - smile, make eye contact, and think of them as friends.

8. Act natural and be yourself.

Remember that stage fright is usually worse before the performance and often goes away once you get started. Confronting your fears and learning ways to reduce and manage them can be empowering. It will make you feel much better about yourself and even help you discover that you are a more confident performer, too.