Stage fright is a common phenomenon that can affect people's ability to perform on stage or in front of an audience. It is a type of anxiety that causes physical and psychological symptoms such as sweating, trembling, a racing heart, and the fear of embarrassment or failure. While some people may manage their stage fright with practice, relaxation techniques, or medication, others may struggle with it throughout their careers.
Some common symptoms of stage fright may include sweaty palms, a racing heart, trembling, a dry mouth, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can be distressing, and they may make it difficult to deliver a successful performance.
Regardless of the coping mechanisms used, it's important to remember that stage fright is a real issue that can impact people's professional and personal lives. According to a survey of orchestra musicians, 95% reported anxiety prior to going onstage. Big artists such as Barbra Streisand, Adele, Rod Stewart, and Rihanna experience stage fright, so you’re not alone. Here are some steps you should take in order to conquer stage fright and rock the stage.
Think of your stage fright experience just like this: you had a difficult exam, and you didn’t study. Many students find that their test anxiety eases if they have studied before the exam. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel. Before your performance, make sure you have rehearsed and practiced everything. How do you think Kobe Bryant is one of the best basketball players in the world? By practicing and putting energy into it, just like you are performing in front of a giant stadium, visualize yourself performing well and feeling confident. This can help reduce anxiety and boost self-assurance.
Mental health is really important, especially when it comes to stage fright. People who experience anxiety when they perform feel like they ran a long marathon afterwards, and this is really bad for your heart. Exercise and a healthy diet can play a big role in one’s mental health. Proper nutrition and exercise lead to better brain development and function. Certain foods contain nutrients that improve brain function, such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium gummies, and tryptophan. Similarly, exercises release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, and help reduce stress and anxiety.
Instead of focusing on your fears, focus on connecting with your audience or instrument. This will help you not overthink and not take action based on your angst. Connecting with your audience will be good not only for your anxiety but also for the people who are there to see you. They will feel more attached to you and your art, which is really an important thing for you as an artist. Another thing that might help is if you perform in front of your friends, and when you are actually performing on stage, you can just imagine that you are performing in front of that friend.
One of the most common and biggest mistakes a new artist can make is to compare themselves with another great artist. Don’t forget that some of the greatest artists of all time have also experienced stage fright. Your fear of performing in front of people has nothing to do with your talent. The first step towards overcoming the fear of stage performances is to accept yourself as you are and remind yourself that you are talented and you don’t need validation from anyone. People are there to see you. Even if you fail in performance, what’s the big deal? We tend to forget that we are not perfect, and no one actually is!
Stage fright, also known as performance anxiety, is a common feeling of nervousness or apprehension that one may experience before or during a public performance, such as giving a speech or performing in front of an audience. There are some steps you can take in order to not let stage fright win and rule your world.
Make sure you put your mental health first by exercising and eating healthy food. Rehearse and practice as much as you can, accept yourself for who you are; and try not to pay attention to what is going on in your head. Trick your focus into listening and connecting with your audience instead.