11 Tips to Overcome Performance Anxiety
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Performance anxiety is something that almost every performer faces. However, some might feel it more than others. Enlisted here are some tips to overcome performance anxiety. They’ll surely help.
1. Face your fears
If it is performance anxiety that is bothering you, remember that escaping the situation will not do you any good. On the other hand, if you actually try to face the fear then you might end up learning something new. The fact is that if you do not take up the challenge, then you have zero chances of succeeding. Your chances of excelling are more if you actually go ahead with the task.
2. Eat wisely
How you perform on the D-day is largely dependent on what you eat the previous day and on the day of the performance. Keep your caffeine and sugar intake to a minimum on the day of the performance. Before the performance, eat something that would keep you energized and satiated. Also, do make sure that you do not over-eat because that will make you sluggish. Go for a low fat meal that is rich in complex carbohydrates.
3. Practice positive visualization
During your performance, do not focus on what all could go wrong. On the contrary, imagine the audience/spectators enjoying themselves as they watch you perform. Imagine them cheering for you. Positive visualization will help you to gain good confidence.
4. Avoid comparison
Do not compare your performance with that of the others. Remember that they worked just as hard as you to get to this stage. Instead, focus on your own performance and try to give your best.
5. Surround yourself with positive people
Before the performance, make sure you have lots of supportive people around you to make you feel good about yourself. If you find yourself amongst those who are adding to your nervousness, then try ditching them and spend some time alone with yourself.
6. Talk to yourself
Every time a negative thought comes to your mind, try talking yourself out of it. Saying things like “I know I can do it” or “I am good” could go a long way in preparing you mentally for the challenge.
7. Meditate
Regular meditation can do wonders to your mental health. You will have a calmer mind and an abundance of positive thoughts. Meditate twice daily (once in the morning and then again before you hit the bed) to relax and calm your nerves.
8. Sleep well
It is extremely important that you sleep well the night prior to the performance. A good sleep will ensure that you are more attentive and focused the next morning. If you feel you are too anxious to sleep, try listening to some soothing music, have some tea, or read a good book.
9. Know what or whom to focus on
You need to figure out what you want to focus on. You will feel less stressed if you do not focus on the result but only on the performance. While performing in front of an audience, maintain eye contact with someone who makes you feel comfortable.
10. Force a smile
This may not sound so easy but a smile, even if it is a forced one, can break the cycle of negative thoughts. Just smile for a few seconds and this could change your attitude for the better. Just relax and focus on the performance.
11. Imagine the worst case scenario
Many a times you tend to overestimate all that could go wrong. Know that be it a case of stage fright or sports anxiety, if you do not do well then it is not going to make your world come crumbling down. Even if you fail to give the perfect performance, your life will go on and it will just be a minor bump in the long road.
