How to Kick Performance Anxiety to the Curb

Performing can be an exciting experience! Being on stage, in the spotlight with all eyes on you, can also be a bit nerve wracking. We’ve found that these few things help us get into the swing of a performance and kick nerves to the curb:

1. Be prepared! Before performing, make sure to have practiced your piece plenty of times. You may even want to do a mock performance in front of friends, family or even strangers in order to make sure you know your part.
2. Be in the moment! Don’t try to analyze your performance while you are performing. When you switch to an analytical mind set, this can cause you to be more likely to make mistakes. Be present and enjoy every moment of the performance.
3. Try to relax! Make sure to breathe deeply before you get on stage to calm your nerves. You should also be aware and mindful of your breathe throughout the performance. Anything to calm nerves and relieve tension will help. Tension can show on stage and cause an otherwise excellent performance to be lack-luster.
4. Don’t forget to smile! The act of smiling automatically brings joy to oneself and those around you. Performing is supposed to be fun, remember to enjoy yourself.
5. Keep going! In the event of a mistake, whatever you do, don’t stop. Continue going as if it was supposed to be that way, and chances are nobody will have noticed the mistake.