Overcoming Nervousness: Singing and Speaking with Confidence
These allergies are crazy. Okay, so you're nervous to sing in front of other people. Don't worry, it happens to all of us. Even experienced performers like myself still get a bit of that excitement and nerves before stepping on stage or in front of a camera. But the key is learning to control that adrenaline kick that comes with nervousness. In this article, we'll explore how being nervous can affect your voice and share a fun technique called progressive desensitization to help you build confidence and overcome your fears.
Why Being Nervous Messes You Up Vocally:
When you're nervous, your body releases adrenaline, which can tense up the micro muscles in your throat and mouth. These muscles need to be relaxed for optimal vocal performance. That's why you might notice your voice sounding different when you're nervous compared to when you sing in the shower. The adrenaline kick can constrict your voice and make it harder to sound your best.
Progressive Desensitization:
Taking Baby Steps to Build Confidence: Instead of trying to eliminate nerves altogether, the focus should be on creating systems and processes to control that adrenaline rush. One effective technique is progressive desensitization. Let's say you have a performance coming up in a month. Start by practicing outside of your safe zone, which could be singing in your car or closet. Step out and practice in your backyard or with the windows down in your car. Embrace the nervousness and do it anyway. Gradually increase the challenge by practicing in slightly more exposed places, like your backyard or a public park. Each time you overcome the nerves, you're desensitizing yourself to that feeling.
Embracing the Adrenaline Kick:
Remember, it's okay to feel nervous. The key is to face your fears and push through them. Remind yourself that the worst that can happen is people not liking your performance, but that's not a life-or-death situation. Your body might react as if you're running away from a tiger, but in reality, you're just singing in a park. Embrace the adrenaline kick and prove to yourself that there's nothing to fear.
Applying Progressive Desensitization to Speaking on Camera:
The same principle applies to speaking on camera. If you feel nervous when the camera is recording, try adding some fun and silliness to your practice sessions. Dance, act crazy, or be wacky in front of the camera. Over time, you'll desensitize yourself to the adrenaline rush and be able to speak naturally and confidently on camera.
Recap:
Nervousness is a common experience for performers and speakers alike. Instead of trying to eliminate nerves completely, it's important to learn how to control the adrenaline kick that comes with it. Progressive desensitization is a valuable technique that allows you to gradually face your fears and build confidence. By practicing in increasingly challenging situations, you'll be able to overcome nervousness and perform at your best. So go out there, embrace the nerves, and show the world your incredible talent!